Albumin
Label Mnemonic: ALB
Epic code: LAB45
Order form: Laboratory Requisition
Supply order: Supply Order Form
Billing: Billing Policies
CPT code: 82040
Specimen(s):
Plasma
Collection Medium:
Plasma Separator Tube 4.5 mL
Alternate Collection Media:
Call laboratory for additional acceptable specimen collection containers.
Minimum:
3 mL; light green top or ONE Microtainer®
Testing Schedule:
24 hrs/day, 7 days a week, including holidays.
Turn Around Time:
1 hour (upon receipt in laboratory)
Reference Range:
Adult Reference Range:  3.4 - 4.8 g/dL

Pediatric Reference Ranges:
  0 - 4 days = 2.8 - 4.4 g/dL
  4 days - 14 years = 3.8 - 5.4 g/dL
  14 years - 18 years = 3.2 - 4.5 g/dL
Test Limitations:
Icterus: No significant interference up to an I index of 60 
(approximate conjugated and unconjugated bilirubin concentration: 60 
mg/dL).

Hemolysis: No significant interference up to an H index of 1000 
(approximate hemoglobin concentration: 1000 mg/dL).

Lipemia (Intralipid): No significant interference up to an L index of 
550. There is poor correlation between turbidity and triglycerides 
concentration.

In very rare cases gammopathy, in particular type IgM (Waldenstrom's 
Macroglobulinemia), may cause unreliable results.

Reference
Glick MR, Ryder KW, Jackson SA. Graphical Comparisons of Interferences 
in Clinical Chemistry Instrumentation. Clin Chem 1986
Methodology:
Colorimetric assay with endpoint method
Sample Processing:
Centrifuge at a speed and time necessary to get barrier separation of plasma/serum and cells within 1 hour of collection. Send specimen in original tube. Do Not transfer to another tube.
Sample Storage:
Refrigerate.
All sample storage requirements are intended for delivery to UIHC within 24 hours of collection for testing. If samples won't arrive in this time period, please call the UIHC Core Lab for alternative storage/shipping instructions (319-356-3527).
Transport Instructions:
Place labeled specimen into zip-lock type biohazard bag; seal bag.
Place completed requisition into outside pocket of bag.
Transport in cooler with refrigerated coolant packs.
CPT Code:
82040
 
See also:
Albumin-Other, Body Fluid
Protein Electrophoresis, Serum