Name of the Condition

• Abnormality of Albumin
• Also referred to as Hypoalbuminemia when levels are low; Hyperalbuminemia when levels are high.

Summary

Abnormality of albumin refers to deviations in the normal levels of albumin, a crucial protein in the blood responsible for maintaining osmotic pressure and transporting various substances. This condition can impact various bodily functions depending on whether the levels are too high or too low.

Causes

• Low albumin (Hypoalbuminemia) can be caused by liver disease, kidney disease, malnutrition, or acute infections.
• High albumin (Hyperalbuminemia) is rare and usually related to severe dehydration or high protein intake.

Risk Factors

• Chronic liver or kidney disease
• Chronic infections or inflammatory conditions
• Malnutrition or poor dietary intake
• Dehydration

Symptoms

• Low albumin: Edema, muscle weakness, fatigue, thin hair, and brittle nails.
• High albumin: Often asymptomatic but may present as symptoms related to dehydration.

Diagnosis

• Blood test to measure serum albumin levels
• Comprehensive metabolic panel to assess overall health
• Urinalysis if kidney disease is suspected

Treatment Options

• Hypoalbuminemia: Address underlying cause, dietary modifications to increase protein intake, albumin infusions in severe cases.
• Hyperalbuminemia: Rehydration and addressing any underlying causes.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Prognosis depends on the underlying cause; regular monitoring is crucial.
• Periodic blood tests to monitor albumin levels and assessment of related health conditions.

Complications

• Severe hypoalbuminemia can lead to complications such as tissue swelling, ascites, and potentially life-threatening conditions if left untreated.
• Hyperalbuminemia primarily results from dehydration, which can exacerbate kidney issues if unmanaged.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Balanced diet rich in protein
• Adequate hydration
• Regular medical check-ups, especially for those with chronic conditions affecting albumin levels

When to Seek Professional Help

• Unexplained swelling or persistent fatigue
• Signs of dehydration such as extreme thirst, dry mouth, or decreased urination

Additional Resources

• American Liver Foundation: liverfoundation.org
• National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: niddk.nih.gov

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure accurate documentation of whether hypo- or hyperalbuminemia.
• Verify any underlying conditions associated with albumin abnormalities.
• Avoid common mistakes such as recording insufficient details of associated conditions.