Tag: Albumin test

Over 70% of hospitalized individuals over 70 years old have experienced hypoalbuminemia. Understanding what are the reasons for low albumin is critical, as the condition often signals an underlying health issue rather than being a primary disease itself.

According to the World Health Organization, protein-energy malnutrition is a major public health concern worldwide, affecting millions. Knowing what are the tests for protein status is vital for diagnosing deficiencies and related health issues like liver or kidney disease.

Albumin is the single most abundant protein found in human blood plasma, making up more than half of the total protein content. Synthesized exclusively by the liver, this remarkable protein plays a vital, multi-faceted role, from maintaining fluid balance to transporting crucial substances and protecting against inflammation.

While high albumin levels are rare, they are most frequently caused by dehydration rather than a disease state. It is a common misconception that specific foods directly cause persistently high albumin levels, though extreme high-protein diets can temporarily affect readings. A balanced diet and proper hydration are key to maintaining healthy albumin concentrations.

While low albumin is more common and often linked to liver or kidney disease, a reported 2% of the population may experience high albumin levels, a condition known as hyperalbuminemia. Understanding what raises albumin levels is crucial, as it typically signals an underlying issue rather than being a healthy state.

The typical normal range for total protein in blood is 6.0 to 8.3 grams per deciliter (g/dL), but what is the normal range for low protein levels? A reading below this range is medically known as hypoproteinemia and can indicate a variety of underlying health issues requiring further investigation.