What does decreased albumin indicate in liver function tests?

Decreased albumin in liver function tests is primarily indicative of issues related to protein synthesis in the liver. The liver is responsible for producing albumin, which helps maintain oncotic pressure in the blood and transports various substances. When liver function is compromised, albumin levels can drop, leading to conditions such as ascites or edema.

Ascites refers to the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity, which often occurs when there is inadequate oncotic pressure due to low albumin levels. Edema, on the other hand, involves swelling caused by the accumulation of fluid in the tissues, which can also arise from low albumin levels affecting fluid balance in the body.

While the other conditions listed may be associated with liver dysfunction or related issues, they do not specifically correlate with the decrease of albumin as directly as ascites or edema do. Hepatic encephalopathy relates to the accumulation of toxins affecting brain function, jaundice reflects increased bilirubin levels, and increased ammonia levels relate to liver dysfunction but not directly linked to albumin production.