Decreased plasma albumin

Plasma albumin is synthesized by liver parenchymal cells and is the most abundant protein in plasma, accounting for 40% to 60% of total protein. The main physiological functions of albumin include: as an endogenous amino acid nutrition source; it has considerable acid-base buffering capacity; it is also a very important carrier in plasma; many poorly water-soluble substances such as bilirubin, bile acid salts, prostaglandins, Steroid hormones, metal ions, various drugs, etc. are all transported through binding to albumin. Another function is to maintain blood colloid osmotic pressure; albumin has a small molecular weight, and its concentration in extravascular body fluids can be a good indicator of the integrity of various membrane barriers. Decrease in plasma albumin: It is mainly seen in cirrhosis with ascites and other severe impairment of liver function (such as acute liver necrosis, toxic hepatitis, etc.) malnutrition, chronic wasting disease, diabetes, severe hemorrhagic nephrotic syndrome, etc. When lowered below 25g / L, ascites is easily produced.

Was this article helpful?

The material in this site is intended to be of general informational use and is not intended to constitute medical advice, probable diagnosis, or recommended treatments.