Albumin (T511) [Back]
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| RISK ASSESSMENT VALUE: |
This small protein which circulates in the blood is made in the liver and has a ½ life of only 2 days so is constantly being replaced. It maintains the osmotic pressure in the blood vessels preventing fluid loss into the extracellular space (edema). Many drugs, hormones and enzymes are loosely bound to albumin which provides a transport mechanism and a reserve pool keeping levels more constant.
Low levels can be caused by reduced production from liver disease especially cirrhosis and many severe illnesses such as cancer or may be caused by increased loss usually the result of heavy proteinuria (nephrotic syndrome). Advanced pregnancy also causes an increase in serum volume and albumin levels decrease as a result of dilution.
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| NORMAL RESULTS: |
3.8-5.1 g/dL.
This is the typical clinical range. The appropriate lower screening cut-off in different populations is a matter of debate. See discussion below. Elevated values are usually artifactual and may indicate sample handling issues.
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| ABNORMAL RESULTS: |
Low values in the absence of proteinuria or advanced pregnancy suggest either advanced liver disease or a disease process such as malignancy that, often through hormonal effects, results in a catabolic state. Further evaluation of low values is indicated.
Based on clinical studies of selected populations cut-offs of 3.5 to 4.0 have been suggested. However, a very large CRL mortality study on insurance applicants completed in 2006 indicates that for this population the value where mortality begins to increase substantially differs from the literature. Talk to your CRL sales representative for details.
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| ADDITIONAL TESTS: |
None. See also Total Protein and Globulin.
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| SAMPLE NEEDED: |
Separated serum from a red-stopper tube.
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| SAMPLE STABILITY: |
Ten days at room temperature; 2 weeks when refrigerated; indefinitely when frozen.
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| METHOD & INSTRUMENT: |
Bromcresol green reaction measured spectrophotometrically
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| INTERFERING FACTORS: |
Gross hemolysis, lipemia, pregnancy, use of plasma instead of serum.
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| PURPOSE: |
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| PROFILE INCLUDES: |
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| RISK RANGE & UNITS: |
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