Hyperalbuminemi

Hyperalbuminemia is the medical term for an abnormally high concentration of albumin in the blood. In adults, normal serum albumin levels are roughly 3.5 to 5.0 g/dL (about 35 to 50 g/L). Hyperalbuminemia is uncommon and is generally not considered a disease in itself but a laboratory finding that prompts evaluation of possible underlying causes.

The most frequent cause is dehydration or plasma volume depletion, which leads to hemoconcentration and elevated measured albumin. Other causes include laboratory artifacts or errors in sample handling (for example, improper collection, storage, or analysis), and recent administration of albumin-containing solutions or plasma expanders. Very rarely, analytical interferences or rare genetic or biochemical abnormalities of albumin can affect measurement.

Clinically, hyperalbuminemia is interpreted in the context of hydration status and other laboratory data. Since albumin is a major plasma protein produced by the liver, persistent elevations without dehydration or recent treatment are unusual and typically prompt repeat testing and review of preanalytic factors. The albumin level does not imply a specific organ dysfunction by itself; rather, it highlights the need to assess volume status and potential technical issues.

Diagnosis generally involves repeating the test with careful sample handling, evaluating hydration status, and checking related parameters such as total protein, globulin levels, hematocrit, and markers of dehydration. Differential diagnosis includes laboratory error and recent infusion of albumin or plasma expanders.

Treatment is directed at the underlying cause. For dehydration, rehydration typically normalizes albumin levels. If the elevation persists without a clear cause, further diagnostic workup of laboratory methodology or uncommon etiologies may be warranted.