39.7 Case Studies of Kidney Functions
Q.1. A child having history of fever and abdominal pain since few days was
examined by doctors. He passed red-colored urine since 3 days and also
having pedal edema. His blood examination results were:
Urea–95 mg/dl
Creatinine–4.4 mg/dl
Cholesterol–230 mg/dl
Total proteins–5.8 g/dl
Albumin–2.2 g/dl
The urine analysis showed the presence of albumin and blood. Comment on
report.Ans: The increased serum urea and creatinine levels indicate compromised kidney
functions. Serum total proteins and albumin levels are decreased, while urine
has albumin and blood. This indicates acute glomerulonephritis. The dam-
aged kidney glomeruli can result in nephritic syndrome. Nephritic syndrome
symptoms include low blood albumin causing edema. Fever and abdominal
pain are due to kidney dysfunction.
Q.2. An old man with history of diabetes since 20 years was admitted to hospital.
His urine output was very low and blood pressure was 220/100 mmHg. The
blood investigation results were:
Sugar (random)–300 mg/dl
Total proteins–5.0 g/dl
Urea–200 mg/dl
Creatinine–12 mg/dl
Cholesterol–290 mg/dl
Na+125 mEq/L
K+5.6 mEq/L
Urine was tested positive for albumin. Comment on report.Ans: This is a case of chronic renal failure arising from diabetic nephropathy due to
chronic primary hyperglycemia. Increased urea and creatinine levels and pro-
teinuria indicate renal damage. Proteinuria is associated with renal injury,
accompanied by diabetic nephropathy. The renal damage may increase perme-
ability of glomeruli further allowing plasma proteins to escape into the urine.
Chronic renal damage also elevates blood pressure. Decrease in sodium
(hyponatremia) and increased potassium (hyperkalemia) levels further confirm
diagnosis.
Q.3. A 6-year-old boy with complain of fever and facial edema was brought to
hospital. He appeared to be lethargic and pale. The laboratory blood results
were:
39.7 Case Studies of Kidney Functions 165