Hypoalbuminemia
Hypoalbuminemia[edit | edit source]
Hypoalbuminemia refers to a medical condition characterized by a serum albumin concentration below the age-related normal range. Albumin, the most abundant protein in human blood plasma, plays a critical role in maintaining osmotic pressure and transporting hormones, fatty acids, and other compounds. Hypoalbuminemia can indicate an underlying health issue or nutritional deficiency and is associated with various medical conditions.
Causes[edit | edit source]
Hypoalbuminemia can result from:
- Liver disease: Impaired albumin production due to liver conditions such as cirrhosis or hepatitis.
- Kidney disease: Loss of albumin through the urine in conditions like nephrotic syndrome.
- Malnutrition: Insufficient protein intake or absorption issues.
- Inflammatory diseases: Conditions that increase catabolism or alter protein distribution, such as sepsis or inflammatory bowel disease.
Symptoms[edit | edit source]
While hypoalbuminemia itself may not directly cause symptoms, its underlying causes can. Symptoms related to hypoalbuminemia include:
- Edema: Swelling due to fluid accumulation, particularly in the ankles and feet.
- Fatigue
- Weakness
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Diagnosis involves blood tests to measure serum albumin levels, typically part of a comprehensive metabolic panel. Additional tests may be conducted to determine the underlying cause, including liver function tests, kidney function tests, and nutritional assessments.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause of hypoalbuminemia:
- Nutritional support for malnutrition
- Medication or therapy for liver and kidney diseases
- Management of chronic conditions contributing to hypoalbuminemia
Complications[edit | edit source]
Hypoalbuminemia can lead to several complications, including:
- Increased risk of edema
- Ascites: Accumulation of fluid in the abdomen
- Increased severity of the underlying disease
See Also[edit | edit source]
External Links[edit | edit source]
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