Related Experiment Videos
[Hematuria in pediatric clinical practice]
B J Khoory1, D Benini, A Pedrolli
1Clinica Pediatrica, Università degli Studi, Verona.
Minerva Pediatrica
|June 5, 1999
Summary
Hematuria, or blood in urine, can be macroscopic or microscopic, affecting 1-2% of children. Diagnosis involves urine tests, red blood cell morphology, and imaging for accurate identification.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Pediatrics
- Urology
Context:
- Hematuria, known since ancient Greece, is defined by abnormal red blood cells in urine.
- It manifests as macroscopic or microscopic blood, with microscopic hematuria being common in children (1-2%).
- Recent research has advanced understanding of hematuria pathogenesis.
Purpose:
- To outline diagnostic approaches for hematuria in children.
- To highlight the utility of various diagnostic tools, from simple urine tests to advanced imaging and biopsy.
- To differentiate between glomerular and non-glomerular causes of hematuria.
Summary:
- Diagnosis begins with urinalysis (dipstick and sediment) to confirm red blood cells.
- Erythrocytic morphology, acanthocytes, mean corpuscular volume, and cylindruria aid in localizing bleeding.
- Family/personal history, physical exam, abdominal ultrasound, and blood tests facilitate diagnosis; biopsy is reserved for complex cases.
Impact:
- Provides a comprehensive overview of hematuria diagnosis in pediatric populations.
- Emphasizes the importance of integrating clinical, laboratory, and imaging data for accurate diagnosis.
- Guides clinicians in selecting appropriate diagnostic pathways, including when to consider invasive procedures like renal biopsy.