What is Albumin?

Albumin is the most abundant protein in blood plasma, produced by the liver. It helps maintain blood volume, transports hormones and nutrients, and prevents fluid from leaking out of blood vessels.

Why is it Important?

Albumin is used to:

Assess liver function (liver produces albumin)
Detect kidney disease (albumin leak into urine)
Evaluate nutritional status
Monitor chronic diseases (inflammatory conditions)
Assess fluid balance and edema risk

Normal Ranges

Group	Range	Unit
Adult	3.5 – 5.0	g/dL
Adult	35 – 50	g/L

What Do Abnormal Results Mean?

Low Albumin (Hypoalbuminemia)

Common causes include:

Liver disease: Cirrhosis, hepatitis (reduced production)
Kidney disease: Nephrotic syndrome (albumin loss in urine)
Malnutrition: Inadequate protein intake
Inflammatory diseases: Crohn's disease, rheumatoid arthritis
Burns or severe wounds: Protein loss
Heart failure: Fluid retention and dilution

High Albumin (Hyperalbuminemia)

Less common, but can indicate:

Dehydration (concentration effect)
High-protein diet (mild elevation)

Clinical Significance

< 3.5 g/dL: Increased risk of edema (fluid retention)
< 2.5 g/dL: High risk of complications (poor wound healing, infections)
Albumin-to-Creatinine Ratio (ACR): Used to detect early kidney disease

When Should You Get Tested?

Albumin is part of liver function tests, comprehensive metabolic panels, and total protein tests. Your doctor may order it if you have swelling, jaundice, signs of liver or kidney disease, or malnutrition.