Serial estimations of serum albumin levels as a prognostic marker in critically ill patients admitted in ICU in tertiary center: An observational study

Critical illness is a severe condition that poses a significant threat to multiple organ systems and can lead to substantial morbidity and mortality. Serum albumin concentration can serve as an independent predictor of mortality risk in critically ill patients. This study aimed to determine the role of serial monitoring of serum albumin (SA) levels as a prognostic marker of mortality and morbidity. This observational prospective study was conducted at a tertiary hospital over a period from January 1, 2020, to December 31, 2020, among critically ill patients admitted to the intensive care unit. Data collection was performed using a prestructured proforma. Statistical analysis was carried out using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software version 23, employing appropriate tests. The P-value <.05 was considered statistically significant. The study included 78 patients with 59 (75.6%) were survivors, and 19 (24.4%) were non-survivors. Mean SA levels did not significantly differ between non-survivors (3.30 +/- 0.40 g/dL) and survivors (3.42 +/- 0.35 g/dL) on admission (day 1) (P = .234). However, on day 3, non-survivors had significantly lower levels (3.02 +/- 0.46 g/dL) compared to survivors (3.31 +/- 0.29 g/dL) (P = .001). This trend continued on day 5, with non-survivors having significantly lower levels (2.92 +/- 0.30 g/dL) compared to survivors (3.31 +/- 0.33 g/dL) (P = .003). The decline in SA levels from day 1 to day 3 and from day 1 to day 5 was statistically significant in non-survivors (P = .001). In survivors, a significant decline was observed from day 1 to day 3 (P = .019), while the decline from day 1 to day 5 was not statistically significant (P = .074). Serial estimation of SA levels in critically ill patients can serve as a valuable prognostic marker, aiding in the identification of individuals at a higher risk of mortality and morbidity.