Evidence supporting the use of: Albumin
For the health condition: Hepatitis

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Albumin is a plasma protein commonly used in clinical practice, particularly in the management of complications associated with advanced liver disease, such as cirrhosis, rather than hepatitis per se. The scientific rationale for albumin administration in liver disease is rooted in its ability to maintain plasma oncotic pressure, bind endogenous and exogenous substances, and modulate immune and inflammatory responses.

In patients with severe hepatitis, especially those who progress to acute liver failure or develop complications like ascites or hepatorenal syndrome, hypoalbuminemia (low albumin levels) is common due to impaired hepatic synthesis. Randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have demonstrated that intravenous albumin administration can be beneficial in specific scenarios related to advanced liver disease, such as:

  • Prevention and treatment of hepatorenal syndrome (often following large-volume paracentesis)
  • Management of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis

However, albumin is not used as a direct treatment for hepatitis itself (i.e., it does not treat the viral or inflammatory process), but rather to manage complications arising from liver dysfunction. The evidence supporting its use in cirrhotic complications is moderate to strong, but its benefit specifically in acute hepatitis (without these complications) is less clear. Most guidelines do not recommend albumin for uncomplicated hepatitis. Thus, the use of albumin is scientifically validated in certain clinical contexts related to severe liver disease, but not as a primary therapy for hepatitis itself.

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