TAGS
The NKF’s most recent definition for CKD is either a GFR of less than 60 (Stage III) or the presence of protein in the urine for at least three months. For more on the five kidney disease stages, see the KidneySteps book.
Blood in the Urine
While a consistent finding of proteinuria indicates kidney disease, the presence of blood in the urine also may be a sign. The abnormal presence of red blood cells (RBC) in urine is called hematuria (hee-muh-TOOR-ee-uh).
Hematuria at low levels requires a microscopic exam to detect. At higher levels, the urine may appear red or smoky-brown.
In healthy individuals, RBCs occasionally may appear in the urine after vigorous exercise, so-called joggers’ nephritis. Occasional appearances of RBCs do not indicate kidney disease. Also, hematuria may be unrelated to the kidneys; but, the RBCs may indicate a urinary tract infection, kidney stones, urinary tract cancer, or may even result from the consumption of large amounts of vitamin C.
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