Albumine solution and modern concepts of infusion therapy: does the story continue?

Abstract

Hypoalbuminemia and hypovolemia are independent risk factors for the development of multiple organ dysfunction, the main cause of death in critically ill patients. The use of a human albumin (HA) solution in complex of the fluid therapy affects both of these risk factors. However, more than 75 years of experience of HA use by the medical community and numerous clinical studies have proved its safety but did not lead to a consensus on the clinical effectiveness of its use. Thus, questions remain, and in which patients the use of HA is most appropriate. The authors of this review attempted to summarize the knowledge accumulated by the medical community on the use of HA in the practice of intensive care.

Keywords

• hypoalbuminemia
• hypovolemia
• septic shock
• human albumin solution