A 23-year-old felt puffy, weak, and tired for several months. She suddenly noticed her urine had
a red to brown discoloration and the volume was minimal. She went to the emergency room of a
nearby hospital and the following data were obtained upon examination and testing:
Hematology:
Serum sodium 125 mEq/L
Serum potassium 6 mEq/L
Serum creatinine 2.6 mg/dL
BUN 24.0 mg/dL
pH (arterial) 7.32
Hematocrit 25%
Urinalysis:
Appearance Red to brown
Specific gravity 1.025
Blood Positive
Glucose Negative
Protein Mild
Renal Function Tests:
GFR (glomerular filtration rate) 40 mL/min
RBF (renal blood flow) 280 mL/min
Discussion Questions
1. What is the disorder of this individual? What situation(s) predispose an individual to this
disorder?
2. Define hyponatremia and hyperkalemia. What is the cause of the hyponatremia and
hyperkalemia?
3. Why is there blood in the urine?
4. How do the renal function tests for this individual compare to normal?
5. What caused the puffy feeling?
6. What type of treatment does this person need? Is this person a candidate for kidney dialysis?
Explain your answer.