Albumin (Fluid)

Specimen Required

FLUID (All Body Fluid)

Fasting Required

Purpose of the Test

Albumin testing on fluid is done to assess and monitor the protein levels in body fluids such as urine, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and pleural, peritoneal, or pericardial fluid. The test is useful in diagnosing and monitoring conditions associated with low protein levels in fluids such as kidney diseases, liver diseases, and cancer.

When this test is required

The test is requested when there is a suspicion of low protein levels in the fluid or when a person has symptoms that suggest a disorder associated with abnormal fluid accumulation.

What the Test Detects

The albumin test on fluid measures the amount of albumin protein present in the body fluid. Albumin is the most abundant protein in the human body and is synthesized in the liver. The test measures the concentration of albumin in the fluid, which can indicate the overall protein level.

Preparation for the Test

There is usually no specific preparation required for the test. However, if the fluid to be tested is a specific type, such as a CSF sample, the healthcare provider may give specific instructions to the patient.

Sample Requirements

The sample required is the fluid in question, such as urine, CSF, pleural fluid, peritoneal fluid, or pericardial fluid.

Additional Notes

The albumin test on fluids should not be confused with the albumin test on blood. The two tests measure different things and have different reference ranges. In addition, interpretation of the test results should be done by a healthcare provider who has the full clinical picture of the patient.

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