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[7-year-follow up (1987-1994) of a population with asymptomatic persistent microhematuria and normal renal function]
L Bonfante1, A D'Angelo, S Favaro
1Divisione di Nefrologia, Patologia Medica I, Università degli Studi, Padova.
Abstract:
A group od 129 patients with persistent asymptomatic microhematuria was studied for 7 years (1987-1994). At the beginning of the study, 31 patients showed mild proteinuria (less than 1 g/day) and in the rest of 98 patients, 21 showed microalbuminuria. At the end of the study none of the patients developed renal failure, urological disease, hypertension. Six patients out of 31 with mild proteinuria (less than 1 g/day), developed an increase of proteinuria over 2 and 3/day and underwent a renal biopsy while 2 out of 21 patients with altered microalbuminuria completely recovered after the follow-up period. The rest of 77 patients at the end of the study still showed isolated microhematuria. The results of this study support the hypothesis that in a population with age range between 16 and 28 years, the presence of persistent microhematuria, also associated with mild proteinuria, even for a long time, does not seem to lead to changes of renal function or to urological diseases.
Insights
Persistent microhematuria, even with mild proteinuria, in young adults (16-28 years) generally does not lead to kidney failure or urological issues over seven years. Most patients maintained stable renal function without developing hypertension.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Urology
Context:
- Persistent asymptomatic microhematuria is a common finding in young adults.
- Long-term outcomes and potential risks associated with this condition are not fully understood.
Purpose:
- To investigate the long-term (7-year) renal and urological outcomes in a cohort of young patients with persistent asymptomatic microhematuria.
- To assess the impact of associated mild proteinuria or microalbuminuria on these outcomes.
Summary:
- A 7-year study followed 129 patients (ages 16-28) with persistent asymptomatic microhematuria.
- No patients developed renal failure, urological disease, or hypertension.
- Six patients with mild proteinuria showed increased proteinuria and underwent biopsy; two with microalbuminuria recovered.
- The majority (77) maintained isolated microhematuria without functional decline.
Impact:
- This study suggests that persistent microhematuria, even with mild proteinuria, is a benign finding in young adults.
- It supports the hypothesis that this condition does not typically progress to significant renal impairment or urological pathology.
- Findings can help reassure patients and clinicians, potentially reducing unnecessary investigations.