Albumin is a protein found in blood and other body fluids. It is essential for:

• Maintaining fluid balance in tissues and blood vessels.
• Transport key substances like hormones, vitamins, and medications.

Doctors often measure albumin levels to detect problems with the liver, kidneys, or other conditions. This biomarker can also help identify conditions such as dehydration and inflammation.

Albumin tests are used to diagnose or monitor a variety of health conditions. They can be performed during routine exams or in the presence of specific symptoms.

Common Reasons to Conduct a Test:

• Routine health exams and preventive screenings.
• Abdominal pain, especially on the right side.
• Changes in the color of urine or stool.
• Yellowing of the skin (jaundice).
• Unexplained weight loss.
• Persistent diarrhea or vomiting
• Swellings in different parts of the body.
• Accumulation of fluid in the abdomen.
• Itchy skin.

Blood tests:

Albumin levels are usually measured using a blood test. The most common tests that include this measurement are:

1. Complete Metabolic Assessment (CMP) : Evaluates organ function, including albumin levels.
2. Liver Function Tests (LFTs) : Measure albumin to assess liver health.

Urine or Body Fluid Tests:

In some cases, albumin may also be measured in urine or other fluids such as cerebrospinal fluid.

Test preparation:

• No fasting or special preparation is usually required.
• Tell your doctor what medications or dietary supplements you are taking, as they may affect the results.

Normal Albumin Values:

• Adults : 45—50 g/L
• Children under 1 year : 35—50 g/L
• Pregnant women :
  • 1st quarter : 31—51 g/L
  • 2nd quarter : 26—45 g/L
  • 3rd quarter : 23—42 g/L

Note: Normal ranges may vary slightly depending on the laboratories and methods used.

High Albumin Levels:

Possible causes:

• Dehydration : Excessive water loss leads to increased albumin levels.
• Prolonged Fasting : Inadequate food intake can change protein levels.
• Metabolic disorders : Affect the body's energy management.
• Inflammatory diseases : Some conditions, such as arthritis, can cause inflammation that affects albumin levels.
• Thyroid problems : An overactive thyroid can increase albumin levels.

Recommendations:

• Hydration : Drink enough to stay hydrated.
• Balanced diet : Maintain a diet rich in quality protein.
• Management of Underlying Diseases : Take medical treatment for thyroid or inflammatory disorders.

Low Albumin Levels:

Possible causes:

• Liver Diseases : The liver produces albumin; liver problems reduce its production.
• Kidney Diseases : Poor kidney function can cause albumin to be lost in the urine.
• Blood loss : Extensive blood loss decreases albumin levels.
• Vitamin C Deficiency : A deficiency in certain vitamins can affect protein levels.

Recommendations:

• Liver-Friendly Diet : Eat foods that support liver health if necessary.
• Kidney Disease Management : Consult a nephrologist to establish a treatment plan.
• Nutrient-rich diet : Include foods that are rich in vitamins and proteins.
• Blood Loss Treatment : Follow medical recommendations to manage severe bleeding.

In case of abnormal albumin levels, consult a general practitioner first. Depending on the results and symptoms, your doctor may refer you to:

• Hepatologist : For liver problems.
• Nephrologist : For kidney problems.

An accurate diagnosis is essential to determine the cause of the abnormal levels and to put in place appropriate treatment.