Differential Diagnosis for Hypoalbuminemia
The following is a differential diagnosis for hypoalbuminemia, categorized for clarity and emphasis on potential severity.
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Nephrotic Syndrome: This condition is characterized by excessive loss of albumin in the urine due to damage to the glomeruli in the kidneys, making it a common cause of hypoalbuminemia.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Liver Cirrhosis: Liver dysfunction can lead to reduced albumin synthesis, resulting in hypoalbuminemia. Conditions like cirrhosis, where liver cells are replaced by scar tissue, can significantly impair albumin production.
- Malnutrition: Inadequate dietary intake of proteins and calories can lead to hypoalbuminemia due to insufficient substrates for albumin synthesis.
- Heart Failure: Severe heart failure can cause decreased liver perfusion, leading to reduced albumin synthesis.
- Inflammatory Conditions (e.g., Rheumatoid Arthritis, Crohn’s Disease): Chronic inflammation can lead to increased catabolism of albumin and decreased synthesis.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Nephrotic Syndrome due to Amyloidosis: A rare condition where amyloid proteins deposit in the kidneys, leading to nephrotic syndrome. Missing this diagnosis could lead to delayed treatment and progression of the disease.
- Budd-Chiari Syndrome: A condition caused by thrombosis of the hepatic veins, leading to liver dysfunction and potentially severe hypoalbuminemia. Early diagnosis is crucial for effective management.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Congenital Analbuminemia: A rare genetic disorder characterized by the absence of albumin production, leading to hypoalbuminemia from birth.
- Albumin Loss through the Gut (Protein-Losing Gastroenteropathy): Conditions like intestinal lymphangiectasia can cause excessive loss of albumin through the gastrointestinal tract.
- Systemic Capillary Leak Syndrome: A rare condition characterized by recurrent episodes of capillary leakage, leading to hypoalbuminemia among other symptoms.