What does albumin measure?

Albumin is a protein produced by the liver. It is the most abundant protein in blood plasma. Albumin helps maintain the balance of fluid between blood vessels and tissues. It also transports hormones, vitamins, and other substances throughout the body.

Albumin levels can be measured to diagnose and monitor a variety of conditions, including:

* Liver disease

* Kidney disease

* Heart failure

* Diabetes

* Malnutrition

* Inflammatory diseases

* Cancer

Low albumin levels (hypoalbuminemia) can be caused by a number of factors, including:

* Liver damage

* Kidney damage

* Protein-losing enteropathy (a condition in which protein is lost through the digestive tract)

* Malnutrition

* Inflammatory diseases

* Cancer

High albumin levels (hyperalbuminemia) are less common and can be caused by a number of factors, including:

* Dehydration

* Kidney disease

* Multiple myeloma (a type of cancer that affects the bone marrow)

Albumin levels are typically measured as part of a routine blood test. If your albumin levels are abnormal, your doctor may order additional tests to determine the cause.