What does hypoalbuminemia mean?
Nov 27, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Heyang
Introduction
Hypoproteinemia, also known as low protein levels, is mainly caused by impaired albumin synthesis, inadequate intake or absorption, and excessive consumption or loss. The primary protein in serum total protein is serum albumin, which is synthesized in the liver. Albumin levels are often reduced in patients with liver diseases such as cirrhosis and liver cancer. For patients with low albumin levels, appropriate nutritional supplementation should be provided based on the underlying cause.
Hypoalbuminemia refers to a condition in which a patient's albumin level falls below the lower limit of the reference range. The main causes include impaired albumin synthesis, inadequate intake and absorption, and excessive consumption or loss.
1. Impaired Albumin Synthesis
Serum albumin is the primary protein component of total serum protein and is synthesized in the liver. In patients with liver diseases such as cirrhosis or liver cancer, albumin levels are often reduced.
2. Inadequate Intake and Absorption
In addition to hepatic synthesis, part of the body's albumin comes from dietary intake. Prolonged vegetarian diets, gastrointestinal dysfunction with malabsorption, and malnutrition can all lead to decreased albumin levels.
3. Excessive Consumption and Loss
In patients with diabetes, kidney disease, or nephrotic syndrome, significant amounts of protein may be lost through urine, resulting in hypoalbuminemia. For underweight or malnourished patients, further evaluations such as liver function tests, electrolyte panels, and stool examinations are recommended to improve nutritional status, reduce local complications, and guide symptomatic treatment.
For patients with low albumin levels, appropriate nutritional supplementation should be provided based on the underlying cause, and treatment should be carried out according to medical advice.
