Role of Serum Albumin as a Prognostic Indicator

*Correspondence to: Suramya Anand Room no. 118, PG Ladies Hostel, M.K.C.G Medical College, Berhampur, Odisha suramya.anand@gmail.com ABSTRACT Background: The serum albumin level is a readily available and clinically useful parameter. A serum albumin level greater than 3.5g/dl offers a protective effect through several biological mechanisms. Serum albumin predicts morbidity and mortality. Patients with abnormal serum albumin levels have a markedly increased risk of poor clinical outcomes. This study evaluates the correlation of serum albumin to postoperative morbidity and mortality in elective surgeries. Methods: This study was conducted in MKCG Medical College & Hospital, Brahmapur, Odisha from September 2013 to August 2015. Out of all surgical admissions for elective surgery during study period in our hospital, 50 cases of different age group were selected randomly. Details of cases were recorded and preoperative serum albumin investigation performed. Post-operative complications were noted and follow up was done till patient was discharged from hospital. Results: Among 50 patients studied, 18 patients developed complications and 32 had uneventful recovery. Wound infection was the most common complication. Rate of complication was more when serum albumin was less than 3.0 gm/dl which was statistically significant. Serum albumin level >3.5 gm/dl was associated with statistically significant lower complications. Conclusion: Serum albumin is a good prognostic indicator as levels < 3.0 g/dl of serum albumin were associated with increased post-operative morbidity.