Albumin: Key protein in liver and kidney health
Albumin is the most common protein in human blood plasma (NHS, 2022). Blood plasma is the liquid component of blood that contains no blood cells and holds proteins, electrolytes, hormones, glucose (sugar), fats, and vitamins in liquid form. Although albumin plays an important role in many bodily functions, many people are not familiar with its properties and clinical significance. This article provides an overview of the key facts you should know about albumin.
Table of Contents
- What is albumin?
- What causes elevated levels?
- What causes low levels?
- What are the symptoms of liver and kidney disease?
- How do you test your albumin?
- Summary
What is albumin?
Albumin is a protein in the blood and makes up about 50% of the total protein content in human blood plasma. Albumin is primarily produced in the liver and then released into the bloodstream, where it fulfills a variety of functions. It not only regulates the fluid balance in the blood by preventing water from leaking out of blood vessels into surrounding tissue but also acts as a transport vehicle for various substances. These include a wide range of molecules such as fats, hormones, vitamins, and medications (Medline Plus, 2022).
Why is albumin measured?
Measuring albumin levels is an important part of medical diagnostics to assess general health and monitor liver and kidney function. This test is not only used when malnutrition is suspected but also to complement the results of other medical tests. It can be performed during routine health check-ups or specifically ordered when symptoms suggest a possible liver or kidney disease (Cleveland Clinic, 2022; Mayo Clinic, 2022).
What is the normal range for albumin?
The normal range for albumin in the blood is typically between 3.5 and 5.5 g/dL in adults. This value may be lower in older adults, pregnant women, and people using oral contraceptives (the pill). Normally, the albumin level in urine is less than 20 mg/L.
What causes elevated levels?
Elevated albumin levels in the blood, known as hyperalbuminemia, are relatively rare and mainly occur as a result of dehydration, which can be caused by conditions such as diarrhea, vomiting, and fever. The use of certain medications, such as corticosteroids (often prescribed for inflammation) or hormone preparations like estrogens used in hormone replacement therapy and insulin used in diabetes treatment, can also cause a temporary increase in albumin levels. Regular monitoring of your albumin values can help you understand how these conditions affect your health and allow for early intervention (Cleveland Clinic, 2022).
What causes low levels?
There are various causes for low albumin levels. The image below shows an overview of the factors that can cause a decreased albumin level:
Albumin, which is mainly produced in the liver, can be affected by liver diseases such as hepatitis or liver cirrhosis. Kidney diseases that result in albumin being excreted through the urine also lead to reduced albumin levels. Diabetes and digestive disorders like inflammatory bowel diseases, including Crohn’s disease, can also impair albumin production. Additionally, heart diseases and acute shock conditions that disrupt blood circulation can negatively affect albumin levels. Chronic inflammation and malnutrition also contribute to low albumin, as the body redistributes its resources. Furthermore, certain lifestyle factors and medications such as the pill, as well as hormonal changes during pregnancy, can influence albumin levels.
Source: Medline Plus, 2022
What are the symptoms of liver and kidney diseases?
Liver and kidney diseases can often lead to a low albumin level. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the symptoms of these diseases to detect potential health issues early. When such symptoms occur, an albumin test can help determine whether your levels deviate from the norm. The following table lists the typical symptoms of liver and kidney diseases:
| Symptoms of liver disease | Symptoms of kidney disease |
|---|---|
| Vomiting and nausea | Swollen hands, feet, or eyelids |
| Reduced appetite | Dry skin |
| Fatigue and weakness | Itching |
| Swelling in the abdomen, ankles, or legs | Frequent or infrequent urination |
| Jaundice | Bloody or foamy urine |
| Dark urine | Weight loss |
| Itching | Decreased appetite |
| Muscle cramps | |
| Sleep problems | |
| Vomiting and nausea | |
| Confusion |
Source: Cleveland Clinic, 2023; NHS, 2023
How do you test your albumin?
Albumin can be measured through both blood and urine tests, each serving specific medical functions:
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Blood test: An albumin blood test measures the concentration of albumin in blood plasma and is often used to assess nutritional status, liver function, and overall health.
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Urine test: The urine albumin test measures the amount of albumin in the urine. It is mainly used to detect early signs of kidney damage, especially in people with chronic conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure who are at increased risk of kidney disease. A healthy person excretes only a very small amount of albumin in the urine; an increase can indicate early kidney dysfunction.
Source: Cleveland Clinic, 2022
To check liver and kidney function from the comfort of your home, Homed-IQ offers a convenient test kit. This test measures albumin in the urine as an indicator of kidney function. It also analyzes other important markers of liver function, giving you a comprehensive picture of the health of these organs. For more information and to order, please click here: Liver and Kidney Function Test from Homed-IQ.
Summary
Albumin is the most common protein in human blood plasma and plays a vital role in maintaining various bodily functions. It is mainly produced in the liver and has important transport functions for various substances in the bloodstream. A normal albumin level is crucial for the health of the liver and kidneys, and deviations can indicate different diseases. Measuring albumin levels is therefore an important part of medical diagnosis and monitoring. A low albumin level may indicate liver or kidney disease as well as other health problems, while high levels are often associated with dehydration. Regular monitoring of albumin can help detect and treat potential health issues early.
