Proteinuria

Proteinuria is a condition in which an increased amount of protein is found in the urine.

A small amount of protein may be present in a healthy person, but a pronounced or persistent increase is an important laboratory sign. It indicates a disruption of the kidney’s filtering function, damage to the tubules, or systemic processes affecting kidney tissue function.

Proteinuria is not a standalone diagnosis but serves as a marker that requires careful assessment and investigation of the cause.

Causes of Proteinuria

Increased protein in the urine can be temporary or persistent.

Temporary proteinuria is often associated with physiological factors and resolves on its own, while persistent proteinuria indicates a disease:

• urinary tract infections;
• damage to the kidney glomeruli and tubules in glomerulonephritis, pyelonephritis, nephrotic syndrome;
• systemic diseases, including diabetes and hypertension;
• prolonged or intense physical exertion;
• dehydration, which increases urine concentration;
• toxic effects of medications, alcohol, or heavy metals;
• pregnancy, especially when combined with increased blood pressure;
• cardiovascular disorders affecting renal blood flow.

Types of Proteinuria

Acute Proteinuria. Acute proteinuria usually occurs suddenly and is associated with temporary factors: high temperature, intense exercise, stress, dehydration, or infection.

After the cause is eliminated, the indicator normalizes, and kidney damage typically does not occur.

Chronic Proteinuria. Chronic elevation of protein in the urine persists for a long period and indicates structural or functional disorders in the kidneys.

It is characteristic of diabetic nephropathy, chronic glomerulonephritis, long-standing hypertension, and autoimmune diseases. Without treatment, it can lead to kidney failure.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis begins with a general urine analysis, which detects the presence and degree of proteinuria.

To clarify the causes, quantitative methods for assessing protein, blood tests, ultrasound examination of the kidneys, and, if necessary, biopsy are used. Monitoring the dynamics of indicators is especially important in chronic cases.

Treatment aims to eliminate the underlying cause. It may include normalizing blood pressure, controlling blood sugar levels, restoring fluid balance, lifestyle modifications, discontinuing nephrotoxic medications, and prescribing drugs that protect the kidneys.

It is important to have regular check-ups with a doctor to monitor kidney function.

Conclusion

Proteinuria is a significant indicator that helps timely detect disorders in kidney function and systemic diseases. Timely diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and preserve kidney function for many years.

When protein is detected in the urine, a comprehensive examination should be conducted, and specialist recommendations should be followed.