What is the ALBI score?
The ALBI score (Albumin-Bilirubin score) is a simple way to estimate liver function using two routine lab values: serum albumin and total bilirubin. It was designed as an objective alternative to older liver function classifications that rely on subjective clinical findings.
In clinical practice, ALBI is often discussed in hepatology and oncology settings, especially in patients with chronic liver disease or hepatocellular carcinoma. Because it uses only laboratory inputs, it can be calculated quickly and consistently.
How to use this ALBI calculator
- Enter your albumin value and choose the correct unit (g/L or g/dL).
- Enter your bilirubin value and choose the correct unit (µmol/L or mg/dL).
- Click Calculate ALBI to get the score and grade.
- The tool automatically converts units to the standard ALBI formula units.
ALBI grade cutoffs
- Grade 1: ALBI score ≤ -2.60
- Grade 2: ALBI score > -2.60 and ≤ -1.39
- Grade 3: ALBI score > -1.39
Why ALBI is useful
ALBI can help stratify liver functional reserve with minimal input data. Because albumin and bilirubin are commonly measured, clinicians can track trends over time and compare risk categories in a reproducible way.
Common applications
- Baseline liver function assessment in chronic liver disease.
- Risk stratification in hepatocellular carcinoma.
- Monitoring liver function trends during treatment and follow-up.
Unit conversion details
The core equation requires albumin in g/L and bilirubin in µmol/L. If you enter other units, this calculator converts them:
- Albumin: g/dL × 10 = g/L
- Bilirubin: mg/dL × 17.1 = µmol/L
Unit mistakes are one of the most common reasons for inaccurate results, so always verify lab units before interpreting the ALBI grade.
Worked example
Suppose a patient has albumin 3.5 g/dL and bilirubin 1.2 mg/dL.
- Albumin: 3.5 g/dL = 35 g/L
- Bilirubin: 1.2 mg/dL = 20.52 µmol/L
- ALBI = (log10 20.52 × 0.66) + (35 × -0.085)
- ALBI ≈ -2.10, which corresponds to ALBI Grade 2
Important clinical limitations
ALBI is useful, but no single score captures the full clinical picture. It should be interpreted with history, examination, imaging, and additional laboratory markers. Acute illness, lab variability, and treatment effects can also influence values.
- Not a stand-alone diagnosis.
- Not a substitute for physician judgment.
- Should be interpreted in context of the patient's condition and trend over time.