Albumin is the most abundant protein in blood, made by the liver. It helps keep fluid inside blood vessels (maintaining oncotic pressure) and transports substances such as hormones, vitamins, and enzymes. The albumin blood test measures how much albumin is in the liquid part of your blood, which can reflect nutritional status and how well the liver and kidneys are working.
It is commonly ordered as part of routine checkups (often within a liver function panel or comprehensive metabolic panel) and to help check for or monitor liver disease, kidney disease, and problems with nutrition. Results are interpreted alongside other tests and your clinical picture, not on their own.
Roughly 3.5 to 5.0 g/dL in healthy adults per NCBI/NIH StatPearls. This is a general reference only — the exact normal range VARIES by laboratory, method, and population, so always compare your result to the reference range printed on your own lab report.
A higher-than-normal albumin level most often reflects dehydration (hemoconcentration) rather than the body making extra albumin, which is described as extremely rare; it typically normalizes with rehydration. Certain medications (for example steroids, insulin, or hormones) can also raise the measured level. A high value is not by itself a diagnosis and should be interpreted by a clinician.
A lower-than-normal albumin level can be associated with liver disease (such as cirrhosis, hepatitis, or fatty liver disease), kidney disease, malnutrition or low dietary protein, inflammation or infection, certain digestive diseases, extensive burns, and thyroid disease; it can also be lower in pregnancy or after fasting. A low value points toward further evaluation rather than confirming any single condition on its own.
Reference ranges vary by laboratory, age, sex, and method — the range on your own report is what applies to you. A single value out of range doesn’t confirm any condition; your clinician interprets it alongside your symptoms, history, and other results. This page is general information, not medical advice.
General reference, not medical advice, and not a substitute for your clinician. Lab reference ranges and interpretation depend on the laboratory and on your individual situation — discuss your results with a licensed healthcare professional.