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Gastroenterology (Expert Forum)
Albumin - Again
Answered by
Kevin Pho, MD - Internal Medicine
Kevin, M.D.
Boston - MA
This forum is for questions regarding Gastroenterology issues such as Acid Reflux (GERD), Barretts Esophagus, Colitis, Colon/Bowel Disorders, Crohn's Disease, Diverticulitis/Diverticulosis, Digestive Disorders, IBS, Stomach Pain.
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Albumin - Again
by HOOOK, Apr 16, 2003 12:00AM
Hi - I asked a question before about albumin but was not really clear on the answer. So I have two questions:
1) Regardless of the cause ( ie the cause had not yet been determined) could an albumin level of 3.0 in a child effect it's growth both in height and weight ??
2) Does a low albumin level (of around 3) mean there is something wrong - ie can a healthy , fit child have such a level???
3)(And most important) Are there any malabsorption conditions that would not show up in levels of fecal fat and an endoscopy. If there are any conditions like this - what tests should be done to confirm such a diagnosis
Thankyou so much for your assistance.
Kay (frustrated mother!!!!)
1) Regardless of the cause ( ie the cause had not yet been determined) could an albumin level of 3.0 in a child effect it's growth both in height and weight ??
2) Does a low albumin level (of around 3) mean there is something wrong - ie can a healthy , fit child have such a level???
3)(And most important) Are there any malabsorption conditions that would not show up in levels of fecal fat and an endoscopy. If there are any conditions like this - what tests should be done to confirm such a diagnosis
Thankyou so much for your assistance.
Kay (frustrated mother!!!!)
Doctor's Answer
by Kevin Pho, MD, Apr 16, 2003 12:00AM
, Apr 16, 2003 12:00AM
Hello - thanks for asking your question.
1) The normal albumin level is between 3.9 and 5. With the child falling in terms of height and weight percentile, it is certainly possible that nutrition can play a role. An albumin of 2.3 is considered to be severe malnutrition. If the cause of the low albumin is due to malnutrition, then it can affect height and weight.
2) As I mentioned in my previous answer, there are many causes of a low albumin. Primarily these would be liver, kidney or malabsorption diseases. To evaluate this further, I would obtain liver and kidney panels. If they are negative, then further tests into malabsorption may be considered.
3) Levels of fecal fat tests for fat malabsorption. There are other types, including carbohydrate and protein malabsorption. Tests for carbohydrate malabsorption includes the D-Xylose test, lactose tolerance test, and breath tests which can diagnose specific forms of carbohydrate malabsorption.
Protein malabsorption is not routinely tested for - indirect tests for bacterial overgrowth causing protein malabsorption may be discussed with a pediatric gastroenterologist.
Followup with your personal physician is essential.
This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.
Thanks,
Kevin, M.D.
1) The normal albumin level is between 3.9 and 5. With the child falling in terms of height and weight percentile, it is certainly possible that nutrition can play a role. An albumin of 2.3 is considered to be severe malnutrition. If the cause of the low albumin is due to malnutrition, then it can affect height and weight.
2) As I mentioned in my previous answer, there are many causes of a low albumin. Primarily these would be liver, kidney or malabsorption diseases. To evaluate this further, I would obtain liver and kidney panels. If they are negative, then further tests into malabsorption may be considered.
3) Levels of fecal fat tests for fat malabsorption. There are other types, including carbohydrate and protein malabsorption. Tests for carbohydrate malabsorption includes the D-Xylose test, lactose tolerance test, and breath tests which can diagnose specific forms of carbohydrate malabsorption.
Protein malabsorption is not routinely tested for - indirect tests for bacterial overgrowth causing protein malabsorption may be discussed with a pediatric gastroenterologist.
Followup with your personal physician is essential.
This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.
Thanks,
Kevin, M.D.
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