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Wednesday, March 19, 2008

Albuminuria

Albuminuria is more than the normal amount of albumin in the urine. Albumin is the predominant protein in human blood and it is the key to the regulation of the osmotic pressure of blood.

It is normal to have some albumin in urine. But too much albumin indicates that protein is leaking through the kidney. Albuminuria can mean many things. For example, albuminuria may be a sign of significant kidney disease or it may simply be a sequel of vigorous exercise. Albuminuria is a form of proteinuria.

Causes:
The kidneys normally filter out large molecules from the urine, so albuminuria can be an indicator of damage to the kidneys. It can also occur in patients with long-standing diabetes especially type 1 diabetes.
Causes of albuminuria can be discriminated between by the amount of protein excreted.
*
The nephrotic syndrome usually results in the excretion of about 3.0 to 3.5 grams per 24 hours.
*
Nephritic syndrome results in far less albuminuria.
* Microalbuminuria (more than 300mg) can be a forerunner of diabetic nephropathy.

Measurement:

The amount of protein being lost in the urine can be quantified by collecting the urine for 24 hours, measuring a sample of the pooled urine, and extrapolating to the volume collected.

Symptoms:
Renal disease, High blood pressure, Swelling of tissues, Ascites etc.

Treatment:
The list of treatments mentioned in various sources for Albuminuria includes the following list. Always seek professional medical advice about any treatment or change in treatment plans.
Treatment of underlying cause, Blood pressure control, Salt or fluid restriction.

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