Albumin
CPT Code(s):
82040
Turnaround Time:
4 hours
Specimen Requirements
Preferred Specimen:
Serum
Minimum Volume:
1.0 mL
Transport Container:
Serum Separator Tube (SST) or Red Top Tube
Transport Temperature:
Room Temperature
Collection Instructions:
Allow blood to clot completely prior to centrifugation. Separate serum from cells within 45 minutes of collection.
Rejection Criteria:
Citrate, Fluoride,Sodium Heparin, or EDTA plasma specimen; gross hemolysis; lipemia; improper labeling
Stability Criteria
Room Temperature:
3 days
Refrigerated:
3 days
Frozen:
60 days
Clinical Significance
Albumin holds specific clinical significance and diagnostic use in the field of clinical chemistry and medical evaluation. This test measures the level of albumin, a protein produced by the liver, in a patient's blood. The clinical significance and diagnostic use of Albumin include:
1. Assessment of Liver Function: Albumin is primarily synthesized by the liver, and its level in the blood provides valuable information about liver function. A decrease in albumin levels can indicate liver dysfunction or damage, such as cirrhosis, hepatitis, or liver disease. Monitoring albumin levels over time can help assess the progression or improvement of liver conditions.
2. Evaluation of Nutritional Status: Albumin is an important marker of nutritional status. A decrease in albumin levels can indicate malnutrition or inadequate protein intake. Monitoring albumin levels is particularly relevant in patients with chronic diseases, eating disorders, or those undergoing nutritional support or rehabilitation.
3. Assessment of Kidney Function: Albumin levels can be used as an indicator of kidney function, specifically for detecting kidney damage or disease. In certain renal conditions, such as nephrotic syndrome or diabetic nephropathy, the kidneys may leak albumin into the urine, leading to low albumin levels in the blood. Albumin helps in monitoring kidney function and evaluating the effectiveness of treatment interventions.
4. Diagnosis and Management of Various Conditions: Abnormal albumin levels can be associated with several medical conditions. Low albumin levels can be seen in inflammatory diseases, certain cancers, severe infections, and chronic inflammatory bowel diseases. High albumin levels can indicate dehydration, severe burns, or certain genetic disorders. Monitoring albumin levels aids in diagnosing and managing these conditions.
5. Prognostic Indicator: Albumin levels have prognostic significance and can provide valuable information about a patient's overall health and prognosis. Low albumin levels are associated with increased morbidity and mortality rates in various diseases and conditions. They can serve as an important prognostic marker in critically ill patients, cancer patients, or those with chronic illnesses.
In summary, Albumin has specific clinical significance and diagnostic uses in assessing liver function, evaluating nutritional status, monitoring kidney function, diagnosing and managing various medical conditions, and providing prognostic information. By measuring albumin levels, healthcare providers gain valuable insights into a patient's health status, enabling appropriate diagnosis, monitoring, and management of diseases and conditions.