Albumin · low result
What does a low Albumin mean?
Short answer
Low albumin most often reflects inflammation or illness (the liver makes less albumin during an acute-phase response), malnutrition, liver disease, kidney disease with protein loss in urine, or gut protein loss. Overhydration and pregnancy lower it mildly. A low albumin also lowers the measured total calcium and makes some medication levels harder to interpret.
Medically reviewed by Youmna DiStefano, MD · Last reviewed September 2026
What is the normal range for Albumin?
- age 18+: 3.50 – 5.00 g/dL
Can reflect liver disease, kidney protein loss, malnutrition, or chronic inflammation.
Full reference table, citations and testing options: Albumin biomarker page.
What are the common causes of low Albumin?
- Acute or chronic inflammation, infection, recent surgery
- Liver disease (cirrhosis)
- Nephrotic syndrome — protein loss in urine
- Malnutrition, malabsorption, protein-losing gut conditions
- Heart failure, overhydration, pregnancy
What symptoms go with low Albumin?
- Swelling of legs, ankles or abdomen
- Fatigue
- Foamy urine when kidneys are losing protein
What do clinicians usually check next?
- CRP to gauge inflammation
- Liver panel and urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio
- Nutritional assessment
- Repeat when well
Follow-up tests available at TestWell: C-Reactive Protein (CRP) ($26.99).
How do you recheck Albumin?
Prices are cash-pay; every order adds one $6 lab processing fee. Physician authorization is included; no insurance or referral needed.
| Test or panel | Type | Price | Fasting | Results |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Wellness Panel | Panel · 4 tests | $89.99 | Yes | 1–3 business days |
| Kidney Health Panel | Panel · 4 tests | $64.99 | Yes | 2–4 business days |
| Gut Health Panel | Panel · 5 tests | $129.99 | No | 3–7 business days |
| Comprehensive Metabolic Panel | Test · 14 biomarkers | $22.99 | Yes | 1–3 business days |
Common questions
Does low albumin mean I'm malnourished?
Not necessarily — inflammation lowers albumin quickly regardless of nutrition. CRP and the clinical picture decide.
Sources
Educational content, not a diagnosis. Lab results are one input; a clinician interprets them with your history and exam.