Albumin

An albumin is a protein that is soluble in water and moderately concentrated salt solutions and coagulates with heat. Serum albumin accounts for about 60% of the plasma proteins in animals and is synthesised in the liver. It is responsible for much of the plasma colloidal osmotic pressure and serves as a transport protein carrying large organic anions (fatty acids, billirubin and many drugs) and certain hormones (cortisol and thyroxine) when their specific binding globulins are saturated. Low serum levels occur in protein malnutrition, active inflammation and serious hepatic and renal disease.

Serum albumin levels vary greatly depending on state of health, environment and nutritional status. It is important for the maintenance of plasma volume. Interpretation of calcium values must be considered in the light of serum albumin levels.