Summary about Disease
Bisalbuminemia is a rare condition characterized by the presence of two distinct albumin bands in serum or plasma following electrophoresis. It is usually an asymptomatic, benign condition. It can be hereditary or acquired. The hereditary form is typically caused by a genetic mutation that leads to the production of a structurally altered albumin molecule. Acquired bisalbuminemia can result from medications, disease states, or other factors that modify albumin.
Symptoms
Bisalbuminemia is generally asymptomatic. Individuals with this condition typically do not experience any health problems related to the presence of two albumin bands.
Causes
Hereditary Bisalbuminemia: Caused by a genetic mutation in the ALB* gene, which codes for albumin. Different mutations lead to slightly different albumin structures.
Acquired Bisalbuminemia: Can be caused by:
Certain medications (e.g., beta-lactam antibiotics, particularly penicillin derivatives).
Kidney disease (e.g., nephrotic syndrome).
Pancreatitis.
High doses of intravenous contrast agents.
Other conditions that modify albumin structure (e.g., carbamylation in renal failure).
Medicine Used
There is no specific medication used to treat bisalbuminemia, as it is generally asymptomatic and does not require treatment. However, in cases of acquired bisalbuminemia, managing the underlying condition or discontinuing the offending medication may resolve the bisalbuminemia.
Is Communicable
Bisalbuminemia is not communicable. It is either inherited genetically or acquired due to environmental or pathological factors affecting the individual, not transmissible from person to person.
Precautions
Since bisalbuminemia is typically asymptomatic, there are no specific precautions required. However, it is important to:
Inform healthcare providers about the presence of bisalbuminemia, especially when undergoing laboratory testing or medical procedures.
Investigate potential causes of acquired bisalbuminemia with a physician.
How long does an outbreak last?
Bisalbuminemia is not an outbreak-related disease. It is a chronic condition; hereditary form persists throughout life. The acquired form lasts as long as the causative factor persists. If the causative medication is stopped or the underlying condition is treated successfully, the bisalbuminemia may resolve.
How is it diagnosed?
Bisalbuminemia is typically diagnosed through:
Serum or Plasma Protein Electrophoresis: This test separates proteins in the blood based on their size and charge. In bisalbuminemia, two distinct albumin bands will be visible instead of the usual single band.
Capillary Zone Electrophoresis (CZE): CZE is another electrophoresis method that can be used.
Mass Spectrometry: In some cases, mass spectrometry may be used to characterize the different albumin variants.
Genetic Testing: If hereditary bisalbuminemia is suspected, genetic testing of the ALB gene can confirm the diagnosis and identify the specific mutation.
Timeline of Symptoms
Hereditary Bisalbuminemia: Usually present from birth, but asymptomatic throughout life.
Acquired Bisalbuminemia: Appears after exposure to the causative agent (e.g., medication) or the development of the underlying medical condition (e.g., kidney disease). The double albumin band may appear relatively quickly after the exposure. Symptoms related to bisalbuminemia are absent. Symptoms of the underlying condition may be present.
Important Considerations
Bisalbuminemia can interfere with certain laboratory tests, particularly those that rely on albumin binding (e.g., measurement of certain hormones, drugs, or bilirubin).
The presence of bisalbuminemia should be considered when interpreting laboratory results, and alternative testing methods may be needed to obtain accurate measurements.
While generally benign, identifying the cause of acquired bisalbuminemia is essential to address any underlying medical condition that may be present.
Genetic counseling may be appropriate for families with hereditary bisalbuminemia.