Lymphology Association of North America (LANA) Practice Exam

How does hypoproteinemia affect Starling's equilibrium of fluid exchange?

1. It will decrease blood capillary pressure

2. It will increase plasma colloid osmotic pressure (COP)

3. It will reduce plasma colloid osmotic pressure (COP)

4. It will increase blood capillary pressure

The correct answer is: It will reduce plasma colloid osmotic pressure (COP)

Hypoproteinemia, which refers to an abnormally low level of protein in the blood, particularly albumin, leads to a reduction in plasma colloid osmotic pressure (COP). Colloid osmotic pressure is primarily influenced by the concentration of proteins in the blood, which play a crucial role in pulling water into the bloodstream and preventing excessive fluid movement out of the capillaries into the interstitial space. When hypoproteinemia occurs, the lower concentration of proteins results in decreased osmotic pressure, impairing the ability of the blood vessels to retain fluid within the intravascular space. Consequently, this imbalance in Starling's forces (which dictates fluid exchange between capillaries and interstitial fluid) can result in increased movement of fluid out of the capillaries, leading to edema and other related issues. Understanding this concept is essential for assessing fluid dynamics in clinical scenarios involving patients with low protein levels in the blood, guiding appropriate interventions to manage fluid balance within the body.