Albumin, Serum
Use
The Albumin, Serum test is useful for assessing nutritional status and aiding in the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis when used in conjunction with serum IgG and cerebrospinal fluid IgG and albumin concentrations. Albumin is a major plasma protein that maintains oncotic plasma pressure and is involved in the transport and storage of various ligands. Hypoalbuminemia could be caused by impaired synthesis due to liver disease, decreased protein intake, increased catabolism, malabsorption, and increased renal excretion.
Special Instructions
The test is only orderable as part of a profile. For more information, see: SFIG / Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) IgG Index Profile, Serum and Spinal Fluid.
Limitations
Albumin concentration determined by the bromcresol green method may not be identical to the albumin concentration determined by electrophoresis. Hyperalbuminemia is generally not diagnostically significant except in cases of dehydration, while low plasma or serum albumin levels may indicate conditions such as edema.
FDA ApprovedNew York Approved
Methodology
Automated Analyzer (Clinical Chemistry)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 1751-7
- 1751-7
Result Turnaround Time
0-1 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
Preferred: Serum gel; Acceptable: Red top; Submission Container: Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Serum gel tubes should be centrifuged within 2 hours of collection. Red-top tubes should be centrifuged, and the serum aliquoted into a plastic vial within 2 hours of collection.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 7 days |
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 120 days |