Albumin

Albumin Blood Test | London Blood Tests | 

Check albumin levels with our blood test for £29. Assess liver, kidney, and nutritional status. UKAS-accredited testing with GP review option.

The Albumin Blood Test measures albumin — the most abundant protein in the blood — and is a key marker of liver function, kidney health, hydration status, and nutrition. Testing is carried out in a UKAS-accredited laboratory, with fast results and an optional GP consultation for interpretation.

What is an Albumin Blood Test?

Albumin is a protein produced by the liver that plays a crucial role in maintaining fluid balance, transporting hormones, vitamins, and medications, and supporting overall metabolic health. It helps keep fluid within blood vessels and prevents leakage into surrounding tissues.

Abnormal albumin levels can indicate a wide range of conditions. Low albumin may be associated with liver disease, kidney disease, inflammation, malnutrition, or chronic illness. High albumin is less common and is usually linked to dehydration.

The Albumin Blood Test is routinely included in liver function panels and metabolic profiles, and is often used to assess:

• Liver synthetic function

• Kidney protein loss

• Nutritional status

• Chronic inflammation or illness

At London Blood Tests, albumin is measured using validated laboratory methods aligned with UK clinical standards.

Benefits of the Albumin Test

1. Key Marker of Liver Function
   Low albumin may reflect reduced liver protein synthesis.

2. Assesses Kidney Health
   Helps detect protein loss due to kidney disease.

3. Monitors Nutritional Status
   Useful for identifying malnutrition or poor protein intake.

4. Reflects Chronic Illness & Inflammation
   Albumin often falls in long-term inflammatory conditions.

5. Supports Fluid Balance Assessment
   Low levels can contribute to swelling and oedema.

6. Complements Other Blood Tests
   Interpreted alongside calcium, liver enzymes, and CRP.

7. Optional GP Consultation for Interpretation
   Results can be reviewed with a GP for tailored advice.

Why Do I Need an Albumin Blood Test?

You may benefit from an albumin test if you experience symptoms or conditions linked to abnormal protein levels, such as:

• Swelling of ankles, legs, or abdomen

• Fatigue or weakness

• Unexplained weight loss

• Chronic illness or infection

• Digestive or absorption disorders

• Suspected liver or kidney disease

Testing is also recommended if you:

• Are monitoring liver or kidney function

• Have chronic inflammatory conditions

• Are recovering from illness or surgery

• Want a general health assessment

Because albumin levels change gradually, they are especially useful for monitoring long-term health trends.

How the Test Works

In-Clinic Testing at London Blood Tests

1. Book Your Appointment

   • Book online or by phone at your chosen clinic.

   • No fasting required.

2. Pre-Test Review

   • Inform the clinician of any chronic illness or recent hospitalisation.

3. Sample Collection

   • A trained phlebotomist collects a venous blood sample.

   • Takes approximately 5–10 minutes.

4. Laboratory Analysis

   • Sample analysed in a UKAS-accredited laboratory.

5. Quality Control

   • Results undergo internal verification before release.

6. Results Delivery

   • Results typically available within 1–2 business days.

7. Optional GP Consultation

   • Discuss results and next steps with a GP if needed.

At-Home Blood Draw (Home or Hotel Phlebotomy – UK-Wide)

1. Book Your Visit

   • Arrange a phlebotomist home or hotel visit at a suitable time.

2. Professional Collection

   • Certified phlebotomist collects your blood sample.

3. Secure Transport

   • Sample couriered the same day to the laboratory.

4. Laboratory Testing

   • Analysis identical to clinic testing.

5. Results & Follow-Up

   • Results delivered online, GP review optional.

Your Albumin Test Results – Explained

Albumin levels are reported in g/L.

Typical UK reference range:

• 35–50 g/L

Interpretation:

• Low albumin: liver disease, kidney disease, inflammation, malnutrition

• Normal albumin: healthy protein balance

• High albumin: dehydration (rarely due to disease)

Albumin results are often interpreted alongside liver enzymes, kidney function tests, CRP, and calcium (adjusted) for a full clinical picture.