Disorders of Albumin Metabolism in Liver Diseases

Human albumin preparations have been used in clinical medicine for over 60 years. Current albumin production has reached a high standard of quality and safety. The positive effects of human albumin infusion on circulatory dysfunction do not limit its use to volume replacement therapy. Different areas of application, such as complications of hepatorenal syndrome, cirrhosis and jaundiced neonates, as well as the topic of extracorporeal albumin dialysis, are discussed in this book. Albumin plasma levels are also independently related to prognosis of several chronic diseases and are routinely used for calculation of the Child Pugh Score. Insights into possible disease-related changes in albumin function and its correct measurement and evaluation are offered.