ALB and schizophrenia: Hence, elevated ratios indicate an increased passage of albumin (and other macromolecules) from blood to CSF as a result of BBB dysfunction.9 As previously established in a meta-analysis of case–control studies, albumin quotient levels are increased in people with schizophrenia.13,14 In comparison, only a handful of studies have explored indicators of BBB dysfunction in people with FEP.