Numerous diseases are associated with a low blood protein count. According to the MedlinePlus website, albumin is a protein manufactured by the liver. Albumin is the main protein in the plasma component of blood, which is called serum. Albumin binds water, sodium, potassium, fatty acids, hormones, drugs and other biological substances. Albumin's principal role is to regulate the osmotic pressure of blood, or the pressure required to prevent the inward flow of water through a membrane. Serum albumin levels indicate the amount of protein in the clear portion of blood.
Hemochromatosis
Hemochromatosis is a disease associated with a low blood protein count. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, or NIDDK, hemochromatosis is the most common type of iron overload disease. Hemochromatosis causes the body to absorb and store excessive amounts of iron. Too much iron in the body's organs can cause significant organ damage. There are two main types of hemochromatosis: primary and secondary. Primary hemochromatosis, also known as hereditary hemochromatosis, is an inherited condition, whereas secondary hemochromatosis is caused by other conditions, such as anemia and alcoholism. Common signs and symptoms associated with hemochromatosis include low serum albumin levels, joint pain, abdominal pain, fatigue, decreased libido, liver disease, pancreas problems, heart abnormalities, thyroid deficiency and adrenal gland disorders.
Wilson's Disease
Wilson's disease is an inherited disorder associated with a low blood protein count. MayoClinic.com states Wilson's disease, also known as hepatolenticular degeneration, involves the accumulation of excessive amounts of copper in the liver, brain and other organs. Copper is important for the development of nerves, bones, collagen and melanin, or the pigment in skin. In most people, any excess copper absorbed by the body is excreted through bile -- a substance generated in the liver and stored in the gallbladder. According to MayoClinic.com, if left untreated, Wilson's disease can be fatal. Common signs and symptoms associated with Wilson's disease include decreased serum albumin, clumsiness, depression, difficulty speaking, walking or swallowing, drooling, fatigue, joint pain, loss of appetite, rashes, swelling of the arms or legs and jaundice.
Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency
Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency can cause a low blood protein count. According to the Alpha-1 Association, or A1A, alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency is an inherited condition that can cause serious lung or liver disease. The liver of a person with alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency does not generate enough of a protein that protects the lungs and liver from damage. Common signs and symptoms associated with alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency include low serum albumin levels, dyspnea or shortness of breath during exertion or when at rest, unintentional weight loss and wheezing. Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency can also cause chronic obstructive pulmonary disease symptoms and symptoms of cirrhosis or scarring of the liver. The A1A states alpa-1 antitrypsin deficiency is made worse by smoking.
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