Prealbumin · low result
What does a low Prealbumin mean?
Short answer
Prealbumin (transthyretin) turns over in about two days, so a low level reflects the last week of nutrition — or, just as often, inflammation, because it is a negative acute-phase protein that falls whenever CRP rises. Liver disease, kidney protein loss and hyperthyroidism also lower it. Read with CRP: low prealbumin with a normal CRP points to inadequate protein-calorie intake; low with a high CRP points to illness.
Medically reviewed by Youmna DiStefano, MD · Last reviewed September 2026
What is the normal range for Prealbumin?
- age 18+: 18.0 – 40.0 mg/dL
Often reflects acute malnutrition, inflammation, or liver disease.
Full reference table, citations and testing options: Prealbumin biomarker page.
What are the common causes of low Prealbumin?
- Protein-calorie malnutrition, poor intake for a week or more, eating disorders
- Acute or chronic inflammation, infection, surgery, trauma (CRP high)
- Liver disease (reduced synthesis)
- Nephrotic syndrome, protein-losing conditions
- Hyperthyroidism, zinc deficiency
What symptoms go with low Prealbumin?
- Weight loss, muscle wasting, poor wound healing
- Often none early
What do clinicians usually check next?
- CRP alongside — the interpretation depends on it
- Albumin, liver panel, kidney function, TSH
- Dietitian assessment; repeat weekly to track refeeding
Follow-up tests available at TestWell: TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) ($26.99), TSH + Free T4 ($27.99), C-Reactive Protein (CRP) ($26.99).
How do you recheck Prealbumin?
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prealbumin | Test | $29.99 | No | 1–3 business days |
Common questions
Why prealbumin instead of albumin?
Albumin's half-life is about 20 days, so it lags. Prealbumin responds within days, which makes it useful for tracking whether nutrition is improving — as long as inflammation is accounted for.
Educational content, not a diagnosis. Lab results are one input; a clinician interprets them with your history and exam.