What is the clinical significance of measuring serum albumin?

Measuring serum albumin is clinically significant primarily for indicating nutritional status and liver function. Albumin is a protein made by the liver, and its levels in the blood can provide valuable insights into a person’s overall health.

Low serum albumin levels may suggest malnutrition, as the body may not be getting enough protein or calories. It can also indicate underlying health conditions that affect absorption or protein synthesis. Additionally, since albumin plays a crucial role in maintaining oncotic pressure (which helps keep fluids in the bloodstream), low levels can suggest issues with liver function, as the liver is responsible for albumin production.

In certain conditions such as liver cirrhosis or chronic liver disease, albumin levels may drop, leading to complications like edema or ascites. Clinicians often use serum albumin measurements as part of a comprehensive evaluation of a patient’s nutritional status and liver health, making it an important and insightful lab value in clinical practice.