Albumin
Serum albumin
The most abundant protein in your blood, made by the liver. It reflects nutritional, liver, and kidney context, and is used to interpret the Fructosamine reading.
The basics
Albumin is the most abundant protein in blood plasma, produced by the liver. It maintains the oncotic pressure that keeps fluid inside blood vessels and acts as a transport carrier for hormones, vitamins, medications, and other substances. A serum albumin test measures its concentration in the blood.
Why this marker matters
Albumin gives broad context on protein and nutritional status and on liver and kidney function. Low levels can reflect chronic inflammation, liver disease, protein loss through the kidneys or gut, or inadequate protein intake. In this panel it has a second role: it is needed to interpret Fructosamine correctly, because low albumin lowers the Fructosamine reading.
Where the typical ranges sit
Typically 3.5–5.0 g/dL in adults; laboratory ranges vary.
A commonly cited adult range is about 3.5 to 5.0 g/dL (35–50 g/L), though intervals differ between laboratories. Mild deviations are often explained by hydration or a temporary inflammatory state. A persistently low albumin is the more meaningful finding and is interpreted alongside liver, kidney, and nutritional markers.
Reference ranges differ between laboratories and guidelines. Your CHIRAYOU report uses the range reported by the analysing laboratory, and your interpretation should be discussed with a physician.
Common influencers
- Acute or chronic inflammation (lowers albumin)
- Liver function (the liver produces albumin)
- Kidney disease (protein loss through urine lowers it)
- Protein intake and overall nutritional status
- Hydration status (dehydration can concentrate it)
- Pregnancy and certain medications
If your value is outside the range
A single mildly low albumin is frequently transient, for example during a minor illness. A persistently low value should be reviewed with a physician, who will consider it together with liver tests, kidney function, and your nutritional and clinical picture.
Where this comes from
Measure your Albumin from home.
Order the blood test