Effect of Albumin Infusion in Preterm Neonates with Hypoalbuminaemia

Hypoalbuminaemia is associated with poor outcomes in critically ill patients. Limited data are available regarding correction of hypoalbuminaemia in preterm neonates and their outcomes. To determine the effects of single 20% Human Albumin Solution (HAS) infusion in preterm neonates with hypoalbuminaemia. A hospital based prospective comparative study was undertaken from October 2021 to December 2022 among fifty-four preterm infants with hypoalbuminaemia (serum albumin ≤ 30 g/L) admitted to Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs). No statistically significant difference regarding duration of respiratory support was identified between the two groups. However, infants in the intervention group achieved full enteral feeds significantly earlier (13.9 ± 6.9 hours vs 20.9 ± 12.3 hours; p = 0.036) and regained their birth weight significantly earlier (18.5 ± 7.2 hours vs 25.7 ± 9.3 hours: p = 0.007) compared to the control group. Single infusion of 20% HAS administered to preterm infants with hypo-albuminaemia provided