Albumin (ALB)

Albumin (ALB)

Albumin is a protein produced by the liver that plays an essential role in maintaining oncotic pressure (fluid balance) in the blood and transporting hormones, vitamins, and medications throughout the body. The Albumin test measures the concentration of albumin in the blood and is commonly used to evaluate liver function, kidney health, and nutritional status.

1. What Is the Albumin Test?

• Albumin is the most abundant protein in the blood plasma.

• It helps keep fluid from leaking out of blood vessels and transports various substances such as hormones and drugs.

• Low albumin levels may indicate liver disease, kidney disease, inflammation, or malnutrition.

2. Why Is the Albumin Test Performed?

This test is performed to:

• Assess liver and kidney function.

• Evaluate nutritional status, especially in hospitalized or chronically ill patients.

• Help diagnose and monitor chronic conditions like liver cirrhosis, nephrotic syndrome, or malabsorption disorders.

3. Albumin Reference Ranges

• Normal Range: 3.5 – 5.0 g/dL (may vary slightly by lab).

• Low albumin levels (< 3.5 g/dL) may indicate:

  - Liver disease (e.g., hepatitis, cirrhosis)

  - Kidney disease (e.g., nephrotic syndrome)

  - Inflammatory conditions or chronic illness

  - Malnutrition or malabsorption

• High albumin levels are rare and typically due to dehydration.

4. How to Interpret Albumin Results

🔹 Normal Albumin: Suggests adequate liver function and nutritional status.

🔹 Low Albumin: May reflect liver or kidney dysfunction, inflammation, or poor nutritional intake.

🔹 High Albumin: Often indicates dehydration rather than a disease state.

5. What Can Affect Albumin Levels?

Factors that can influence albumin levels include:

• Liver disease (impaired albumin synthesis)

• Kidney disorders (albumin lost in urine)

• Acute and chronic inflammation

• Severe infections or burns

• Poor diet or malabsorption conditions

6. When to See a Doctor

🚨 You should consult your healthcare provider if:

• Your albumin level is consistently low.

• You have symptoms of liver or kidney disease (e.g., swelling, jaundice, fatigue).

• You are undergoing treatment for a chronic condition that affects nutrition or protein levels.

🔹 Key Takeaways

✅ Albumin is a key protein that reflects liver function, kidney health, and nutritional status.

✅ Low levels may signal chronic disease or protein loss; high levels are usually due to dehydration.

✅ Regular monitoring helps manage chronic conditions and detect complications early.