Total serum albumin measurement is used to diagnose and monitor the treatment of many pathological conditions involving the liver, kidneys or bone marrow, as well as metabolic and nutritional disorders.
More information
Total protein or total serum albumin reflects the total amount of serum albumin and globulins. Serum proteins are synthesized in the liver and from the mononuclear cells of the lymph nodes, spleen and bone marrow. Whole albumins consist of more than 100 different substances and are grouped as albumin and globulin. Serum proteins are required for the regulation of colloidosmotic pressure and include coagulants, antibodies, enzymes, hormones, growth factors and pH buffers.
The two most common causes of changes in total serum albumin are changes in serum water volume and changes in the concentration of one or more of the circulating proteins.
Possible Interpretations of Pathological Values
- Increase: Amyloidosis, Addison's disease, autoimmune collagen disorders, chronic infections, dehydration (relative increase), diarrhea, Franklin's disease, haemolysis, liver disease, macroglobulinemia, multiple myeloma, visceral leishmaniasis. Medications: Clofibrate, corticosteroids, corticotropin, dextran, growth hormone, heparin, insulin, levothyroxine, silhouettes, somatotropin, sulfobromofthalin, thyrotropin, tolbutamide
- Decrease: Acute cholecystitis, burns, chronic glomerulonephritis, cirrhosis, congestive heart failure, Crohn's disease, diarrhea, edema, idiopathic hypertension, dermatitis, hemorrhage, hepatic disease (severe), hypodermatitis, hypodermic disease kwashiorkor, leukemia (unicellular, myelogenous), malabsorption, malnutrition, nephrosis, nephrotic syndrome, peptic ulcer, pregnancy, protein loss enteropathy, celiac disease, ulcerative colitis, water retention. Medications: Intravenous fluids containing glucose, oral contraceptives, pyrazinamide, salicylates
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most important parameter for the diagnosis and monitoring of all pathological conditions. 70%-80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. Correct interpretation of laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased".
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be interpreted in relation to each individual case and family history, clinical findings and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your personal physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and we contact your doctor to get the best possible medical care.
