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Albumin

Major serum protein synthesized by the liver; historically used as a nutrition marker but now recognized as primarily an inflammation marker.

Normal range 3.5 to 5.0 g/dL. Half-life ~20 days. Low albumin reflects inflammation, liver disease, nephrotic syndrome, or protein-losing enteropathy more than dietary protein intake. ASPEN/Academy malnutrition criteria no longer include albumin. Still used to estimate fluid balance, calcium correction, and oncotic pressure.

How one textbook covers it

  • Krause and Mahan's Food and the Nutrition Care Process, 16th ed. — Chapter 5

    Normal range 3.5 to 5.0 g/dL. Half-life ~20 days. Low albumin reflects inflammation, liver disease, nephrotic syndrome, or protein-losing enteropathy more than dietary protein intake. ASPEN/Academy malnutrition criteria no longer include albumin. Still used to estimate fluid balance, calcium correction, and oncotic pressure.

Related terms

C-Reactive Protein, Malnutrition, Prealbumin