The Albumin (Body Fluid) test measures the albumin level in a specific body fluid (such as pleural, peritoneal, or cerebrospinal fluid) to help assess various medical conditions. This test is commonly used to evaluate fluid imbalances and diagnose conditions that cause fluid accumulation in the body. Albumin is a protein produced by the liver, and its presence or absence in body fluids provides diagnostic clues.

Why is it checked?

1. Assessing Fluid Type

• To determine whether the fluid is a transudate (fluid due to systemic factors like heart failure) or an exudate (fluid due to local inflammation or infection).
• This distinction helps narrow down potential causes of fluid accumulation.

1. Diagnosing Conditions

• Pleural effusion: To assess lung-related fluid buildup.
• Peritoneal fluid: To evaluate for ascites caused by liver disease, infection, or cancer.
• Pericardial effusion: To investigate heart-related fluid accumulation.
• Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF): To evaluate conditions like meningitis or other neurological disorders.

1. Liver Function Assessment

• In cases of ascites, low albumin levels might indicate cirrhosis or liver failure.
• The serum-ascites albumin gradient (SAAG) is often calculated to distinguish between portal hypertension-related and non-portal hypertension-related ascites.

Symptoms Leading to Testing

The test may be ordered when symptoms suggest fluid accumulation in specific areas of the body, such as:

1. Pleural Effusion Symptoms (Lungs)

• Shortness of breath.
• Chest pain.
• Persistent cough.

1. Ascites Symptoms (Abdomen)

• Abdominal swelling or distension.
• Nausea or indigestion.
• Feeling of heaviness or discomfort in the abdomen.

1. Pericardial Effusion Symptoms (Heart)

• Chest pain or pressure.
• Difficulty breathing, especially when lying down.
• Swelling in the legs or abdomen.

1. Neurological Symptoms (CSF)

• Severe headache.
• Neck stiffness.
• Sensory or motor changes (e.g., numbness or weakness).
• Fever or altered mental status.

Normal vs. Abnormal Findings

• Normal Albumin Levels: Suggest fluid leakage is due to systemic (transudative) causes like heart failure.
• Low Albumin Levels: Suggest a local cause (exudative), such as infection, malignancy, or inflammation.
• High Albumin Levels (in fluids): Rare but could indicate protein leakage due to tissue damage.

This test is often part of a broader diagnostic evaluation, combined with imaging studies, fluid cytology, and other lab tests for a comprehensive diagnosis.