Albumin infusion in patients undergoing large volume paracentesis: A meta-analysis of randomized trials.
Background: IV albumin has been used as a plasma volume expander. In cirrhotics albumin keeps an essential role in solubilization, transport and metabolism of a variety of molecules. It also has some immonumodulatory properties.
Design: A recent review focused on the role of albumin in cirrhotics.
Results: Well established indications were concluded from this review for the use of albumin.
-Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis: albumin + antibiotics reduces the incidence of renal failure and improves survival.
-Hepatorenal syndrome: albumin + vasoconstrictors decrease mortality.
-Paracentesis-induced circulatory dysfunction. Albumin helps prevent this syndrome.
A lot of other biologic functions of albumin were outlined in this review which leads to other indications of its use.