ALBUMIN, FLUID

Albumin, Fluid

What it is

The Albumin, Fluid test measures the level of albumin protein in body fluids such as pleural fluid, peritoneal (ascitic) fluid, or pericardial fluid. Albumin helps maintain fluid balance, and this test is often used to differentiate between transudative and exudative fluid collections.

Uses

This test helps identify the cause of abnormal fluid accumulation in body cavities. It is commonly used in the diagnosis of conditions like liver cirrhosis, heart failure, nephrotic syndrome, infections, and cancers. It also aids in evaluating nutritional and liver function status.

Symptoms That May Lead to the Test

Doctors may order this test if a patient presents with symptoms such as abdominal swelling, difficulty breathing, persistent cough, chest pain, or unexplained fluid buildup in body cavities.

Abnormal Results

High Albumin: Rare in body fluids but may indicate increased vascular leakage due to inflammation or infection.

Low Albumin: Suggests chronic liver disease, nephrotic syndrome, protein-losing conditions, or systemic inflammation. The albumin level is also used in calculating the Serum-Ascites Albumin Gradient (SAAG) to distinguish portal hypertension-related ascites from other causes.

Risks

The test itself has no direct risks since it is performed on fluid samples collected by procedures such as paracentesis, thoracentesis, or pericardiocentesis. Risks are related to the fluid collection procedure, which may include mild pain, bleeding, infection, or rare complications like organ injury.