From the Research
Hyperalbuminemia in an 18-year-old typically doesn't require specific treatment as it's often a benign laboratory finding rather than a true medical condition. The first step is to confirm the result with repeat testing and determine if the patient is dehydrated, as this is the most common cause of elevated albumin levels, as seen in studies related to hydration status and serum albumin levels 1. Encourage adequate fluid intake of 2-3 liters per day to address potential dehydration. If hyperalbuminemia persists despite hydration, a thorough medical evaluation should be conducted to rule out rare underlying causes such as multiple myeloma (though extremely uncommon in this age group), severe dehydration, or laboratory error. No medications are typically prescribed specifically for hyperalbuminemia. Instead, management focuses on identifying and addressing any underlying cause. Normal albumin levels range from 3.5-5.0 g/dL, and mild elevations are often clinically insignificant. The condition itself is rarely harmful, as albumin is a beneficial protein that maintains oncotic pressure and serves as a transport protein in the bloodstream, with its importance highlighted in various medical conditions, including liver diseases 2 and its role in patient outcomes 3, 4. Regular follow-up with primary care is recommended if levels remain persistently elevated without explanation. It's also worth noting that while hypoalbuminemia has been extensively studied and linked to various health issues, hyperalbuminemia's clinical significance, especially in a young adult, is less commonly discussed in the literature, suggesting a more benign nature or less immediate concern in the context of morbidity, mortality, and quality of life.