Albumin, a protein in blood plasma, plays a central role in various bodily functions. Produced in the liver, this protein is fundamental for maintaining fluid balance within the circulatory system and facilitating the transport of numerous substances throughout the body. Understanding its functions helps clarify when medical intervention with albumin might be necessary.
Understanding Albumin and Its Functions
Albumin primarily maintains oncotic pressure, also known as colloid osmotic pressure, within blood vessels. This pressure acts like a pull, keeping fluid inside the blood vessels and preventing it from leaking into surrounding tissues. This function helps preserve adequate blood volume and prevent fluid accumulation, or edema, in body tissues. Albumin contributes approximately 75% to 80% of the total oncotic pressure in plasma.
Beyond its role in fluid balance, albumin serves as a versatile carrier protein. It binds to and transports a wide array of substances, including hormones, fatty acids, and bilirubin, as well as various medications and ions like calcium. This transport capability ensures these essential molecules are distributed throughout the body. Albumin also exhibits antioxidant properties, helping to neutralize free radicals and reactive oxygen species, thereby protecting cells from oxidative damage.
Specific Conditions Where Albumin is Used
Albumin administration is considered in several medical scenarios where its unique properties can support patient recovery. In cases of severe burns, albumin is utilized for fluid resuscitation. It helps to replace lost protein and restore the correct osmotic pressure, which contributes to stabilizing circulating blood volume.
Patients with advanced liver disease, such as cirrhosis, often benefit from albumin. When large volumes of fluid are removed from the abdomen during a procedure called large-volume paracentesis, albumin helps prevent a complication known as paracentesis-induced circulatory dysfunction. Administering albumin can reduce the risk of circulatory problems, hyponatremia, and kidney impairment.
Albumin also plays a role in managing spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP), a common infection of ascitic fluid in individuals with cirrhosis. SBP can lead to kidney impairment and an increased risk of mortality. When given alongside antibiotics, albumin significantly lowers the incidence of kidney problems and improves survival rates.
Albumin, often combined with other medications like vasoconstrictors, is used to treat hepatorenal syndrome (HRS). HRS is a severe kidney complication that can arise from advanced liver disease. This combination therapy aims to improve circulatory function and blood flow to the kidneys. Albumin can also be considered in other serious illnesses or conditions causing low blood volume, such as major injury, certain infections, or pancreatitis, to expand circulating plasma volume.
Receiving Albumin: Process and Precautions
Albumin is administered directly into a patient’s vein through an intravenous (IV) infusion. It is available in different concentrations, with the choice depending on the specific medical needs of the patient. Healthcare professionals determine the appropriate concentration and rate of infusion.
During albumin administration, medical staff closely monitor the patient for any potential adverse effects. Monitoring for signs of fluid overload is a primary concern, which can manifest as shortness of breath, coughing, chest pain, or swelling in the extremities. Vital signs, electrolyte levels, and kidney function are also routinely checked to ensure patient safety and guide treatment.
While generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience reactions to albumin. Mild effects can include flushing, fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, or a minor skin rash. Although rare, more severe allergic reactions such as hives, facial swelling, difficulty breathing, or anaphylaxis can occur. These reactions typically resolve if the infusion is slowed or discontinued. It is important to note that albumin solutions should not be diluted with sterile water, as this can lead to red blood cell breakdown. Additionally, caution is exercised in patients with underlying conditions like severe anemia, heart failure, or kidney impairment due to the increased risk of fluid-related complications.