Distribution and degradation of albumin in extensive skin disease

SUMMARY The distribution and degradation of albumin were determined in twelve patients with extensive skin disease and in ten control subjects by measuring the metabolic turnover and transcapillary escape of 131I‐labelled albumin. The ratio of intravascular to total mass of albumin was normal. Thus the observed hypoalbuminaemia and the low intravascular mass reflect a reduced mass of total body albumin. The rate of synthesis was normal, but the transcapillary escape rate reflecting the micro‐vascular leakiness to macromolecules, and the fractional disappearance rate were significantly higher n i the patients than in the controls (P