Professional
Technical
IVT
colloid osmotic pressure
Osmotic pressure exerted by proteins in blood plasma, primarily albumin, that helps maintain intravascular volume.
Full Definition
Colloid osmotic pressure, also known as oncotic pressure, is generated by plasma proteins that cannot freely cross capillary membranes. This pressure opposes hydrostatic pressure and helps retain fluid within the vascular compartment according to Starling's forces. In surgical critical care, decreased colloid osmotic pressure due to hypoalbuminemia can contribute to edema formation, third-spacing, and difficult fluid management. Understanding this concept is essential for rational fluid therapy and albumin replacement decisions in critically ill surgical patients.
Usage
Usage note: Often measured in mmHg or torr.
In Context
- "Low colloid osmotic pressure secondary to hypoalbuminemia contributed to pulmonary edema." — Pathophysiology explanation
- "Albumin replacement was considered to improve colloid osmotic pressure." — Treatment plan
Also known as
oncotic pressure
plasma protein pressure
Contrasted with
hydrostatic pressure
Don't confuse with
osmolality
osmotic pressure