Con: The Unclear Benefit of Albumin

Liver Transpl. 2019 Jan;25(1):135-139. doi: 10.1002/lt.25384.

Abstract

Many studies have shown that 20% human albumin solution infusions improve circulatory function in patients with advanced liver disease, and this treatment is widely recommended and used by all hepatologists. However, it is more expensive than other crystalloids or colloids, and several countries suffer shortages of supply. This article examines whether other fluids might be considered for these patients.

MeSH terms

  • Clinical Trials as Topic
  • Colloids
  • Crystalloid Solutions / administration & dosage
  • Crystalloid Solutions / economics
  • End Stage Liver Disease / complications
  • End Stage Liver Disease / therapy*
  • Fluid Therapy / economics
  • Fluid Therapy / methods*
  • Fluid Therapy / standards
  • Humans
  • Infusions, Intravenous
  • Liver Transplantation
  • Plasma Substitutes / administration & dosage
  • Plasma Substitutes / economics
  • Practice Guidelines as Topic
  • Serum Albumin, Human / administration & dosage*
  • Serum Albumin, Human / adverse effects
  • Serum Albumin, Human / economics
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Colloids
  • Crystalloid Solutions
  • Plasma Substitutes
  • Serum Albumin, Human