Blood biochemistry: albumin
Synonym(s): Alb A
Overview
- Produced in the liver - major component of total plasma protein Blood biochemistry: total protein Blood biochemistry: total globulin.
- Relative and absolute changes in plasma levels occur with a range of disease processes.
- More useful in combination with total protein measurement.
Uses
In combination
- Investigation of ascites.
- Investigation of edema.
- Monitoring of chronic hepatic disease.
Other points
- If hypoalbuminemia is detected first rule out excessive protein loss:
- Renal loss (check for urine protein).
- Gastrointestinal loss.
- Then rule out hepatic dysfunction:
- Liver function tests, eg bile acids although laboratories may not have normal ranges.
Sampling
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Tests
Methodologies
- There are various methodologies, including Colorimetric method based on binding to bromocresol green and electrophoresis (generally recommended).
Availability
- Widely available.
Validity
- These vary with laboratories and analysers and should be available on demand.
Technique intrinsic limitations
- Only useful in conjunction with other laboratory and clinical findings.
Result Data
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Further Reading
Publications
Refereed papers
- Recent references from PubMed and VetMedResource.
- Benson K G & Paul-Murphy J (1999) Clinical pathology of the domestic rabbit: acquisition and interpretation of samples. Vet Clin North Am Exotic Anim Pract 2 (3), 539-552 PubMed.
Other sources of information
- Varga M (2014) Textbook of Rabbit Medicine. 2nd edn. Butterworth Heinemann Elsevier, UK.
- Wesche P (2014) Clinical Pathology. In: BSAVA Manual of Rabbit Medicine. Eds: Meredith A & Lord B. pp 124-137. BSAVA, UK.
- Fudge A M (1999) Laboratory Medicine. Avian and Exotic Pets. W B Saunders Co. ISBN: 0721 676 790.