Albumin Kinetics in Generalized Inflammation - an Exploratory Study on Patients Before and After Major Abdominal Surgery

Albumin infusions have been used for expansion of the plasma volume for more than 60 years, not only in the operating room, but also in trauma and sepsis. However, there is an ongoing debate whether albumin is good or bad for the patient compared to other intravenous fluids, in different situations. Our research program aims at exploring this issue, starting by describing how the body handles the endogenous albumin in connection with severe inflammation. The final goal is to improve fluid treatment for these patients.

Plasma albumin is often decreased in inflammation. However, the underlying mechanisms are not well described. Two aspects of albumin kinetics will be covered in this study by measurements immediately before and two days after major abdominal surgery, that will serve as a model for generalized inflammation. Albumin fractional synthesis rate will be determined by the incorporation of deuterium labelled phenylalanine into plasma albumin. Albumin distribution will be measured as transcapillary escape rate of radioiodinated albumin. By assessment of P-albumin and plasma volume it will be possible to calculate albumin absolute rate of synthesis and albumin absolute flux from the central compartment, respectively.