How long before proteinuria affects serum albumin?

[DVCal]

I have very high proteinuria, and from what I understand this causes serum albumin levels to decrease. Right now my level of proteinuria is around 3 to 4 grams a day, and my serum albumin is slightly high at around 5.3 g/dL. Typically how high can my proteinuria get before I see a noticeable drop in serum albumin?

If you are wondering, I do not have dehydration. I drink over 3 liters of water a day.

[DVCal]

The test so far show GFR if around 100. Which is normal.

Total albumin was elevated above normal, total serum protein was also slightly above normal, total calcium is also slightly above normal.

Total urine protein is around 3.5 grams/24 hr.
Total creatinine is around 4 grams a day/24 hr.

Protein to creatinine spot ratio is around 700 mg/g.

The Nephrologist is having me do all kinds of test. Their is a good chance he said, that I will need to do a kidney biopsy though.

[Dr Santos]

Hi,
What initial diagnostic tests were done? Albuminuria  often refers to  proteinuria and if the filtration system of the kidney's glomeruli has a problem,  larger particles than usual may pass through. Heavy and persistent proteinuria may indeed result in hypo-albuminaemia which presents with ankle swelling, abdominal pain and breathlessness. The exact numbers depend on a variety of factors such as medical history, symptoms present and how the kidney functions- the creatinine and GFR levels.  Proteinuria in excess of 3.5 g per day warrants further evaluation by a kidney specialist to rule out nephrotic syndrome. Additional diagnostic tests such as glomerular filtration rate, renal ultrasound, and possible intravenous urography and serological screening for autoantibodies and complement level. Hope this helps. Take care and do keep us posted.