What condition is represented by low serum albumin?

Low serum albumin is indicative of hypoalbuminemia, a condition where the concentration of albumin in the blood is below the normal range. Albumin is a critical protein produced by the liver, and it plays an essential role in maintaining oncotic pressure, transporting various substances, including hormones and medications, and serving as a buffer for pH levels in the blood.

When serum albumin levels are low, it can lead to various clinical manifestations, including edema and ascites, due to the loss of oncotic pressure. Several conditions can cause hypoalbuminemia, including liver disease (such as cirrhosis or hepatitis), nephrotic syndrome (where albumin is lost through the kidneys), malnutrition, and inflammatory states.

Understanding the significance of hypoalbuminemia is important in clinical practice, as it is often a relevant marker for underlying diseases and helps guide diagnosis and management. This condition can prompt further investigation into the causes and necessitate intervention to address the underlying issues affecting albumin production or loss.