MTE #48 - Albumin Use in Patients with Decompensated Cirrhosis: A Debate

Nov 13 2023
Room 204 - Hynes Convention Center
12:30 - 1:15 PM EST

Speakers

Rakhi Maiwall

Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences

Elizabeth Verna

Columbia University Medical Center

Description

Recently, there has been increased interest in judicious use of IV albumin in patients with decompensated cirrhosis. On one hand, its use has been advocated as first line therapy for several indications. On the other hand, concerns about its unregulated use has been called into question based on recent studies. This MTE will evaluate both sides of the debate and at the end, offer some guidance on specific use cases for albumin and contraindications to its use in patients with decompensated cirrhosis.

Objectives

  • Learn about current and historical studies that evaluated use of IV albumin in patients with decompensated cirrhosis
  • Discuss existing indications for IV albumin use in fluid resuscitation and other indications
  • Discuss cost and adverse events associated with IV albumin use