Is albumin part of liver function?

Under normal circumstances, albumin is part of a liver function test and reflects the liver's synthetic function. However, in special cases, it should be evaluated together with other indicators. If concerned, it is recommended to consult a doctor in advance. Detailed analysis is as follows:

During routine liver function tests, albumin is typically included in the assessment. The liver is the primary site for albumin synthesis. When liver cells are damaged (e.g., due to hepatitis or cirrhosis), the ability to synthesize albumin decreases, potentially leading to lower blood albumin levels. Measuring albumin concentration helps evaluate whether the liver’s synthetic function is normal and provides insight into overall liver health.

If only albumin is tested alone, or if albumin levels are abnormal while other liver function indicators (such as transaminases and bilirubin) remain normal, non-liver-related factors should be considered. Conditions such as long-term malnutrition (due to insufficient protein intake), severe burns causing excessive albumin loss, or kidney diseases (e.g., nephrotic syndrome) leading to increased albumin excretion can all result in abnormal albumin levels. In such cases, further investigations are needed to identify the underlying cause, and liver function should not be assessed based on albumin levels alone.

When undergoing liver function testing, attention should be paid to the comprehensive results, including albumin and other markers. If abnormal albumin levels are detected, patients should promptly inform their doctor about their dietary habits and medical history. Maintaining a balanced diet in daily life and consuming adequate high-quality protein can provide sufficient raw materials for the liver to synthesize albumin.