Prealbumin

Prealbumin is a protein made in the liver and is used to evaluate malnutrition.

Prealbumin Overview

Reviewed: May 13, 2015
Updated: 

Prealbumin is a protein made in the liver. It is considered a great marker to evaluate malnutrition. Prealumin test can also be used to evaluate patients receiving parenteral nutrition. 

Prealbumin levels are measured in mg/dL. The normal range for Prealbumin is 16-35 mg/dL. 

Technique

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Blood draw

Preparation

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Fasting is not required before the test

What the results mean

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Higher than normal prealbumin levels may mean:

  • Hodgkin's Disease
  • NSAID use
  • Cortisosteroid use

Lower than normal prealbumin levels may mean:

  • Cancer
  • Hyperthyroidism
  • Infection
  • Liver disease
  • Malnutrition