ALBUMIN, SERUM

What this test checks

Measures albumin, the most abundant protein in your blood. Albumin helps keep fluid in your blood vessels and carries nutrients. Low levels can indicate poor nutrition, liver disease, or kidney problems.

Why do people get this test?

Low albumin can be a sign of malnutrition, chronic illness, or organ disease. It is also used to assess how well someone is recovering from a serious illness.

When you should consider this test

• Unexplained swelling in legs or abdomen
• Chronic illness, weight loss, or poor appetite
• Routine check-up of liver or kidney function

How to prepare

No fasting required.