The primary function of serum albumin in peripheral blood is to:

The primary function of serum albumin in peripheral blood is to:

• A. Maintain colloidal osmotic pressure
• B. Increase antibody production
• C. Increase fibrinogen formation
• D. Maintain blood viscosity

Answer: (A)

Serum albumin’s main job in circulating blood is to maintain colloidal (oncotic) pressure. Its large size and high concentration in plasma create a pulling force that draws water back into the vascular space, helping to keep blood volume stable and prevent edema. While albumin also carries various substances in the blood, this fluid-balancing role is its primary function. It does not drive antibody production or fibrinogen formation, and although plasma protein levels can affect blood viscosity, that is not albumin’s defining purpose.

Serum albumin’s main job in circulating blood is to maintain colloidal (oncotic) pressure. Its large size and high concentration in plasma create a pulling force that draws water back into the vascular space, helping to keep blood volume stable and prevent edema. While albumin also carries various substances in the blood, this fluid-balancing role is its primary function. It does not drive antibody production or fibrinogen formation, and although plasma protein levels can affect blood viscosity, that is not albumin’s defining purpose.