“Albumin Blood Test: Function, Normal Levels, and What Results Mean”

Albumin is a protein synthesized by the liver and is the most abundant protein in human plasma, accounting for approximately 50–60% of total plasma proteins. It plays several critical roles in maintaining homeostasis and supporting various physiological functions.

Functions of Albumin:

1. Regulation of Oncotic Pressure: Albumin helps maintain oncotic pressure, which is essential for keeping fluids within blood vessels and preventing leakage into surrounding tissues. This contributes to stable blood pressure and reduces the risk of edema.

2. Transport of Molecules: It acts as a carrier protein, binding to and transporting hormones, fatty acids, bilirubin, drugs, and other substances throughout the bloodstream.

3. Antioxidant Properties: Albumin binds to free radicals and harmful molecules, reducing oxidative stress and protecting tissues from damage.

4. Nutritional Reserve: It serves as a source of amino acids for tissue repair and metabolic processes.

5. Waste Removal: Albumin binds to toxins and waste products, facilitating their removal from the body.

Clinical Importance:

– Diagnostic Marker: Albumin levels are used in blood tests to evaluate liver function, kidney health, and nutritional status. Low levels (hypoalbuminemia) can indicate conditions such as malnutrition, liver disease, or kidney dysfunction.

– Therapeutic Use: Albumin infusions are used in critical care settings to treat conditions like burns, shock, liver disease, and hypoalbuminemia.

Normal Range

The normal range for albumin in the bloodstream is typically 3.5–5 g/dL, with variations depending on individual health conditions.

References

Albumin (Blood). (2024). Rochester.edu. 

https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content?contenttypeid=167&contentid=albumin_blood

MedlinePlus. (2021). Total Protein and Albumin/Globulin (A/G) Ratio. Medlineplus.gov. https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/total-protein-and-albumin-globulin-a-g-ratio/

‌Mount Sinai. (2013). Albumin – blood (serum) test Information | Mount Sinai – New York. Mount Sinai 

Health System. https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/tests/albumin-blood-serum-test

Medline Plus. (2022, June 7). Albumin Blood Test: MedlinePlus Lab Test Information. Medlineplus.gov. 

https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/albumin-blood-test/

‌Cleveland Clinic. (2022). Albumin Blood Test: What It Is, Purpose, Procedure & Results. Cleveland Clinic. 

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/22390-albumin-blood-test

Moman, R. N., Gupta, N., & Varacallo, M. (2021). Physiology, Albumin. PubMed; StatPearls Publishing. 

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29083605/

Armata, N. (2022, May 13). Serum Albumin: What Is It, Regulation, and More | Osmosis. 

Www.osmosis.org. https://www.osmosis.org/answers/serum-albumin

Moman, R. N., Varacallo, M., & Gupta, N. (2022, December 26). Physiology, albumin. Nih.gov; StatPearls Publishing. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459198/