Test Code 403
Test Details
Albumin
Albumin is the major plasma protein responsible for regulating plasma osmotic pressure as well as providing transport for large organic anions and some drugs. This test measures the amount of albumin in plasma.
Methodology
Colorimetric Principle
Patient Preparation
None
Preferred Specimen
1.0 mL serum (0.5 mL minimum) collected in serum separator tube (SST/Tiger Top)
Alternate Specimen
Dried Blood collected on an AdvanceDx 100 card
Transport Temperature
Refrigerated (ship on frozen cold packs)
Stability
Refrigerated: 5 months
Lab Values
Albumin
| Age | Low | Normal | High |
| Adults | <3.5 g/dL | 3.5 – 5.2 g/dL | >5.2 g/dL |
| Children
(14-18 yr) |
<3.2 g/dL | 3.2 – 4.5 g/dL | >4.5 g/dL |
| Children
(<14 yr) |
<3.8 g/dL | 3.8 – 5.4 g/dL | >5.4 g/dL |
Clinical Significance
Albumin
- Elevated levels associated with dehydration
- Decreased levels associated with:
- Liver disease
- Chronic disease
- Reduced protein intake
- Increased catabolism due to tissue damage or inflammation
- Malabsorption of amino acids
- Nephrotic syndrome
- Protein loss via stool in neoplastic disease
Treatment Options
Albumin
- Identify etiology of elevated or decreased total testosterone levels with physical assessment and additional diagnostic tests as indicated
- Treatment is based on etiology of abnormal hormone level
