In nephrotic syndrome, which serum protein is commonly decreased?

In nephrotic syndrome, the serum protein that is commonly decreased is albumin. This condition is characterized by increased permeability of the glomeruli, leading to substantial protein loss in the urine (proteinuria). Albumin, which is the most abundant protein in blood plasma, plays a crucial role in maintaining oncotic pressure. As a result, when there is significant loss of albumin due to nephrotic syndrome, serum albumin levels drop, leading to symptoms such as edema and ascites.

While other proteins might also be affected, they do not experience the same level of decrease as albumin in this context. For instance, immunoglobulins like IgG can be affected, but the reduction in albumin is more prominent in nephrotic syndrome's clinical presentation. This is particularly important because low albumin levels are a hallmark of the condition and directly contribute to its pathophysiology.