Plasma protein reflecting protein nutritional status over 2-3 weeks.
Main plasma protein synthesized by the liver, reflecting protein nutritional status in the medium term. Concentration is a classical nutritional assessment marker.
Albumin represents 50-60% of total plasma proteins and has a 20-day half-life. Levels decrease with protein-energy undernutrition but also with liver disease, inflammation, or renal loss. An albumin level below 35 g/L is generally considered to indicate moderate to severe malnutrition. Albumin plays a crucial role in transporting various substances and maintaining oncotic pressure. Its evolution is slower than that of prealbumin, making it less sensitive to rapid nutritional changes.
Protein marker of nutritional status in the medium term and reflection of wound healing potential and immune function.
Use serum albumin in conjunction with other markers to assess nutritional status. Maintain adequate protein intake to optimize albumin levels, aiming for a general value above 35 g/L.
Serum albumin is a classic but slow-evolving nutritional status marker, to be interpreted in the clinical context.
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