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Neurocritical Care
Published in: Neurocritical Care 3/2011

01-06-2011 | Review

In My Opinion: Serum Albumin Should be Maintained During Neurocritical Care

Author: David J. Powner

Published in: Neurocritical Care | Issue 3/2011

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Abstract

Hypoalbuminemia is common among critically ill/injured patients and is strongly associated with increased morbidity and mortality in the patients with and without neurological conditions. Normal serum albumin is important as the primary intravascular antioxidant, in transporting a variety of hormones, medications and electrolytes, in providing colloid osmotic pressure during trans-compartmental fluid movement, in enhancing organ and tissue blood flow, and in supporting acid–base balance. Studies of albumin administration during intravascular resuscitation have not addressed potential longer term benefits to sustaining serum albumin concentrations during critical care. Evidence for such benefit is present although additional prospective studies are needed.
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Metadata
Title
In My Opinion: Serum Albumin Should be Maintained During Neurocritical Care
Author
David J. Powner
Publication date
01-06-2011
Publisher
Humana Press Inc
Published in
Neurocritical Care / Issue 3/2011
Print ISSN: 1541-6933
Electronic ISSN: 1556-0961
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s12028-011-9513-z

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