What are the classifications of hypoalbuminemia?
Dec 12, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Feng
Introduction
In general, the grading of hypoalbuminemia is primarily based on serum albumin levels, including five levels: normal range, mild decrease, moderate decrease, severe decrease, and very severe decrease. Grading of hypoalbuminemia is of significant guidance for formulating treatment plans. It requires targeted management according to the underlying cause, along with attention to supportive interventions such as nutritional supplementation.
Generally, the grading of hypoalbuminemia is primarily based on serum albumin levels, divided into five categories: normal range, mild decrease, moderate decrease, severe decrease, and extremely severe decrease. The specific classification is as follows:
1. Normal range: Serum albumin level is 35–55 g/L. Within this range, the body has sufficient albumin reserves to normally maintain physiological functions such as plasma osmotic pressure and transport of nutrients, with no symptoms related to hypoalbuminemia.
2. Mild decrease: Serum albumin level is 30–35 g/L. Most individuals have no obvious symptoms; however, some particularly sensitive individuals may experience mild fatigue or slight edema in the lower limbs, which does not significantly worsen with activity. It is often detected incidentally during routine physical examinations or evaluations for other conditions.
3. Moderate decrease: Serum albumin level is 25–30 g/L. More noticeable systemic symptoms appear, including persistent fatigue, decreased appetite, and worsening edema in the lower limbs and eyelids. Some individuals may also show early signs of ascites or pleural effusion.
4. Severe decrease: Serum albumin level is 20–25 g/L. Symptoms further deteriorate, with edema spreading throughout the body and significant accumulation of ascites and pleural effusion. Malnutrition and reduced immunity are common, potentially leading to recurrent infections and delayed wound healing.
5. Extremely severe decrease: Serum albumin level is below 20 g/L. This represents a critical condition characterized by severe generalized edema and large-volume ascites and pleural effusion. Life-threatening complications such as pulmonary edema and heart failure may occur, requiring immediate intervention and correction.
The grading of hypoalbuminemia plays an important role in guiding treatment decisions. Management should be tailored according to the underlying cause, with attention to nutritional support and other interventions to help restore albumin levels to normal.
