Overview
Albumin binds and solubilizes various compounds like bilirubin, calcium, long-chain fatty acids, heavy metal ions, and many drugs. Hypoalbuminemia can result from impaired synthesis due to liver disease or low protein intake, increased breakdown from tissue damage or inflammation, malabsorption of amino acids, or excessive renal excretion, as seen in nephrotic syndrome.
What is the Albumin Test?
Albumin binds and solubilizes various compounds, including Bilirubin, Calcium, long-chain Fatty Acids, Toxic heavy Metal Ions, and numerous pharmaceuticals. Hypoalbuminemia is caused by several factors: impaired synthesis due either to Liver disease (Primary) or due to diminished protein intake (Secondary), increased catabolism as a result of tissue damage and inflammation, malabsorption of Amino acids, and increased renal excretion (Eg, Nephrotic syndrome).
What is the Purpose of the Albumin Test ?
This test is advised for following purposes:
- Screening: It is generally advised at the part of comprehensive metabolic panel or liver panel during a routine medical check-up as a form of screening. It helps in detecting the associated diseases even before the symptoms appear.
- Diagnosis: This test is often advised if you exhibit the signs of potential liver disease like Jaundice, Fatigue, or symptoms of possible Kidney disease, such as abnormal Urination or unexplained swelling (Particularly of the Feet and Legs).
- Monitoring: It may provide information about the severity of the disease and how a condition changes over time with treatment.
When is an Albumin Test Recommended ?
The following are a few signs that could indicate the need for an Albumin Test:
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes (both type 1 and type 2 diabetes)
- Swelling in feet or hands
- Family history of kidney disease
- Frequent Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
- Foamy or frothy urine
- Age above 65 years
Preparation for Albumin Test
- Overnight fasting is preferred before the Albumin Test.
- Other blood tests can be carried out in addition to a Albumin Test. If your doctor advises you to have multiple tests at once, they may ask you to fast for a specific period of time prior to a blood test.
- Drink adequate water before sample collection.
- Avoid vigorous physical activity before the sample collection..
- Follow the preparatory instructions as guided by your doctor.
What is the Cost of the Albumin Test ?
The Price of an Albumin Test is Rs. 120. However, cost of the test may fluctuate depending on following factors:
- Other tests advised along with Albumin Test
- Offers or discounts
- Empanelment of the patient
Components of Albumin Test
- Albumin: The liver produces albumin, a protein that enters the bloodstream and aids in the transportation of vital compounds such as vitamins and enzymes. Additionally, the protein aids in stopping fluid leakage from the blood vessels.
Interpreting the Albumin Test Results
The normal range of albumin:
- Adults: 3.5 to 5.0 grams per deciliter (g/dL)
- Children: 3.4 to 5.4 g/dL (may vary slightly based on age)
Low albumin levels may indicate conditions such as liver disease, kidney dysfunction, or malnutrition.
Elevated levels are rare and may suggest dehydration.
How to Schedule an Albumin Test with Dr. B. Lal Lab ?
- Go to the Dr. B. Lal Lab website.
- Go to the “Book a test” tab.
- Select the “Lab Test” tab.
- Type “Albumin Test” in the search bar.
- Click on the test.
- The test page with all the test details will show up.
- Click on “Book Now”.
- Login and verify your mobile number with OTP.
- Now enter your details.
- Select date & time for booking a Albumin Test in Jaipur.
- Check out.
How is the Albumin Test Done ?
The Blood Sample for Albumin Test is taken in following steps:
- The area where the needle will be inserted to take your blood is cleaned with an antiseptic alcohol wipe. The hollow on the inside side of the elbow or the tip of the finger are the most common sites for this.
- A tourniquet or a band is tied around your upper arm to facilitate the access to the vein in your arm.
- A needle is used to puncture your vein. The blood sample is collected into a test tube attached to the needle. The needle may cause a small pinch or sting when it is inserted.
- Once the vial or test tube is filled, the blood sample collection for the test is finished and the needle is taken out.
- Finger pressure is applied on the puncture site to stop the bleeding and the band aid is applied at the site.