hypoalbuminaemia
Last reviewed 03/2022
Hypoalbuminaemia results in oedema and effects secondary to the decreased transport of specific molecules, e.g. calcium.
Congenital:
- analbuminaemia - rare; plasma albumin usually less than 1.0 g/l. Often asymptomatic due to compensatory increases in plasma globulins.
Reduced synthesis:
- liver disease - usually only in chronic disease as:
- large hepatic reserve
- long half-life of albumin - 20 days
- severe malnutrition
Increased catabolism:
- following trauma, surgery
- infection
- malignancy
Increased losses:
- renal - proteinuria, especially the nephrotic syndrome
- skin - exfoliative dermatitis; severe burns
- gastrointestinal tract:
- haemorrhage
- protein losing enteropathies
Altered distribution:
- serous effusion, e.g. ascites
- overhydration