From the Research
Elevated albumin levels in a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) are most commonly caused by dehydration, which concentrates albumin in the blood, resulting in higher measured levels. When the body's fluid volume decreases, albumin becomes more concentrated in the blood. Other causes include certain medications like anabolic steroids, androgens, growth hormones, and insulin, which can increase albumin production 1. Acute infections or inflammation may temporarily raise albumin levels as part of the body's stress response. Congenital disorders like analbuminemia (where the body produces abnormally high albumin) are rare but possible causes. Laboratory errors during blood collection, processing, or analysis can also falsely elevate results. Albumin, produced by the liver, normally maintains oncotic pressure in blood vessels and transports various substances throughout the body. Normal albumin levels typically range from 3.5 to 5.0 g/dL, with values above this range considered elevated. If elevated albumin is detected, addressing the underlying cause (such as rehydration for dehydration) is the appropriate management approach rather than treating the albumin level itself, as supported by the most recent study on albumin administration in patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis 1.
Some key points to consider:
- Dehydration is a common cause of elevated albumin levels
- Certain medications can increase albumin production
- Acute infections or inflammation can temporarily raise albumin levels
- Congenital disorders and laboratory errors are rare but possible causes
- Addressing the underlying cause is the appropriate management approach
It's worth noting that the most recent and highest quality study on albumin administration in patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis found that long-term albumin administration significantly reduced mortality and complications of liver cirrhosis compared to standard medical therapy alone 1. However, this study does not directly address the causes of elevated albumin levels in a CMP, but rather the effects of albumin administration in patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis. Therefore, the management approach for elevated albumin levels should focus on addressing the underlying cause, rather than treating the albumin level itself.