What Do These Lab Reports Indicate?

Posted on Mon, 3 Oct 2016

Question: My doctor contacted me today with my second lab result. The protein in my urine is at 370. How bad is that and what would you suggest be done. I've been on Enalapril 2.5 mgs. for about 4-5 years. She asked me to up it to 5 mgs. and will recheck me in 3 months.

I have Lupus and Lymes Disease

Answered by Dr. Divya Agarwal (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
mild proteinuria.

Detailed Answer:
hello,
urinary protein is alright in a range upto 300 mg.
So your results are slightly on the higher side, but nothing alarming.
That is the reason, that your doctor has increased the dose of enalapril which is an ace inhibitor, a medicine known to decrease proteinuria.
So I think we are on the right track, you should continue the same way, and follow up should be at 3 months.
regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Veerisetty Shyamkumar

Follow up: Dr. Divya Agarwal (43 hours later)

my doctor said that my kidney problems could be related to either heart problems or liver problems. How is that determined? I have been on many medications over the years. I've read that medications for Reflux could damage kidneys also. Is there a test to determine that? Should I have a liver function test?

Answered by Dr. Divya Agarwal (9 hours later)

Brief Answer:
monitor urine protein

Detailed Answer:
hi,
liver and heart problems generally don't cause protein loss in urine, the best would be to monitor urinary protein and urinary sediments in order to gauge activity of renal disease.
Also medication like hydroxy chloroquine may be considered from lupus point of view. If other tests for lupus like ok, this should not be a major cause of worry.
regards

Note: For further information on diet changes to reduce allergy symptoms or to boost your immunity, Ask here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng