Urine Test Results: What Do Your Numbers Mean?

Urine test inquiry?

Hello Doctor, I recently had a physical examination and I don't quite understand the following test results, so I would like to ask you:
1.
Test Name: Creatinine (CRE) Result: 203.1 mg/dL
2.
Microalbumin (Immunoturbidimetric Method) Result: 203.1 mg/dL
3.
Total Protein Result: 203.1 mg/dL
Doctor, I missed a call from the clinic and I'm worried that there might be something abnormal, so I wanted to ask you first.
Thank you, Doctor!

xì, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/10/24

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, these three values should be from a urinalysis, right? The presence of these three values suggests that you may have had proteinuria previously.
The normal ranges for these values can vary depending on the testing methods used by different hospitals, so your report should indicate the normal reference ranges.
It should also specify whether your values are normal or abnormal, which can serve as a preliminary reference.
If there are no indications, it may be necessary to return for a follow-up consultation with the physician at that hospital to inquire whether these values are abnormal.
Thank you for your question.

Reply Date: 2022/10/24

More Info

Understanding urine test results can be quite daunting, especially when the numbers seem alarming or confusing. Based on the values you've provided, let's break down each component and discuss what they mean in the context of kidney health.

1. Creatinine (CRE): Your reported creatinine level is 203.1 mg/dL. This value is significantly elevated compared to the normal range, which typically falls between 0.6 to 1.2 mg/dL for adults. Elevated creatinine levels can indicate impaired kidney function, as creatinine is a waste product that the kidneys filter out of the blood. When the kidneys are not functioning properly, creatinine levels rise, suggesting that they may not be effectively removing waste from your body.

2. Microalbumin (微白蛋白): You also mentioned a microalbumin level of 203.1 mg/dL. Microalbuminuria refers to the presence of a small amount of albumin in the urine, which can be an early sign of kidney damage, particularly in individuals with diabetes or hypertension. Normal levels of microalbumin are typically less than 30 mg/dL. Your result indicates a significant amount of albumin in your urine, which is concerning and suggests that your kidneys may be experiencing stress or damage.

3. Total Protein: The total protein level you provided is also 203.1 mg/dL. Normal urine protein levels are generally less than 150 mg/dL. Elevated total protein levels can indicate a variety of conditions, including kidney disease, infections, or systemic diseases that affect the kidneys. The presence of excess protein in the urine (proteinuria) can be a sign of kidney dysfunction.

Interpretation of Results
Given that all three values you provided are elevated, it is crucial to take these results seriously. Elevated creatinine suggests that your kidneys may not be filtering waste effectively, while high microalbumin and total protein levels indicate that there may be damage to the kidney's filtering units (glomeruli).

Next Steps
1. Consult a Nephrologist: It is essential to follow up with a kidney specialist (nephrologist) as soon as possible. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation, including a detailed history, physical examination, and possibly additional tests such as imaging studies or a kidney biopsy if necessary.

2. Further Testing: You may need additional tests to determine the underlying cause of your kidney dysfunction. This could include blood tests to check electrolyte levels, a complete metabolic panel, and possibly tests for diabetes or hypertension.

3. Lifestyle Modifications: Depending on the underlying cause, lifestyle changes may be recommended. This could include dietary modifications, managing blood pressure, controlling blood sugar levels if diabetic, and avoiding nephrotoxic medications.

4. Monitoring: Regular monitoring of kidney function through blood and urine tests will be necessary to assess the progression of any kidney disease and the effectiveness of any treatment initiated.

Conclusion
In summary, your urine test results indicate potential kidney dysfunction, and it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Early intervention can significantly impact the management of kidney disease and help prevent further complications. Remember, while these numbers can be alarming, they are a starting point for understanding your kidney health and taking appropriate action.

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