Albumin, Serum

Test Code

ALB

CPT Codes
82040

Preferred Specimen

1.0 serum

Transport Container

Serum seperator tube/Gold top tube.

Transport Temperature

Room Temperature or Refrigerate.

Methodology
Dye Binding-BCG

Reference Range

Male/Female	>18 Years 3.5-5.1 g/dL
	14 Years 3.2-4.5 g/dL
	4 days 3.8-5.4 g/dL
	0 days 2.8-4.4 g/dL

Clinical Significance

Albumin is the most abundant protein in the body and is known as the carrier protein because of its ability to bind and transport ligands. Hyperalbuminia is of little diagnositic significance except in case of dehydration. Hypoalbuminemia occurs during many illnesses and is caused by several factors: compromised synthesis due either to liver diseae or as a consequence of reduced intake; elevated catabolism due to tissue damage or inflammation; malabsorption of amino acids (Chron's disease); proteinuria as a consequence of nephrotic syndrome; protein loss via the stool (neoplasic disease). The determination of albumin allows monitoring of a controlled patient dietary supplementation and serves also as an excellent test of liver function.

The CPT Codes provided in this document are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payor being billed. Any Profile/panel component may be ordered separately. Reflex tests are performed at an additional charge.