How is it used?
The prealbumin test is used to help your doctor diagnose problems with your nutrition. Prealbumin most often is used to help doctors diagnose protein-calorie malnutrition. In this condition, which can affect more than 30% of hospitalized patients, the body breaks down muscle, protein, and body fat. This type of malnutrition can lead to complications and even death if not treated. Children with malnutrition may fail to thrive or have stunted growth.
The test is also used to make an assessment of nutritional status:
• before a scheduled surgery,
• in patients who are hospitalized with certain conditions, and
• in patients who are chronically ill.
Many patients have a decline in nutrition during their hospital stay, especially after surgery. Studies have shown that good nutrition prior to surgery helps to avoid complications, such as pneumonia and infection, after surgery. If the prealbumin test indicates that you are malnourished or have poor nutrition, your doctor can help correct your diet so you get stronger before your surgery. Albumin may be tested instead to determine nutritional status.
The test also is used to monitor changes in patients who are receiving parenteral nutrition (nutrition from outside of the gastrointestinal tract, such as nutrients given through intravenous treatment). The test also is used to monitor changes in nutrition status for patients who are receiving hemodialysis, a process that removes waste substances from your circulating blood. Hemodialysis is part of treatment for patients with kidney disease.
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When is it ordered?
A doctor orders a prealbumin test when signs of malnutrition or poor nutrition are present. Signs of malnutrition include extreme weight loss, stunted growth (in a child), weakened resistance to infection, or being unable to think clearly. Hair may become brittle or begin to fall out, the skin may be dry or yellowish, muscles may feel weak, and fainting spells may...
