The clinical significance of hypoalbuminaemia

Albumin is a relatively small molecule with a radius of 7.5  nm and a molecular weight of 65 kDa. It is the most abundant protein in plasma, accounting for 60–75% of its oncotic pressure. Its concentration in plasma is merely one static measurement reflecting a dynamic and complex system of albumin physiology, and is the net result of several different p rocesses, one or more of which may become deranged by disease or its treatment. It is also unsurprising that hypoalbuminaemia has proved to be an indicator of morbidity and mortality risk since the underlying conditions which cause it, including protein energy malnutrition, crystalloid overload, inf lammation, and liver dysfunction are themselves risk factors.
Source: Clinical Nutrition - Category: Nutrition Authors: Tags: Opinion paper Source Type: research