PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

What defines nephritic syndrome in relation to urine composition?

1. Presence of bacteria

2. Presence of glucose

3. Presence of protein and RBC casts

4. Presence of high levels of calcium

The correct answer is: Presence of protein and RBC casts

Nephritic syndrome is characterized by a specific set of clinical features that reflect glomerular inflammation and damage. A key aspect of nephritic syndrome is the presence of protein in the urine, although the amount is typically less than what is seen in nephrotic syndrome. Additionally, the presence of red blood cells (RBCs) and RBC casts in the urine is a significant indicator of this condition, as they reflect the underlying inflammation and disruption of the glomerular filtration barrier. The combination of proteinuria and hematuria, along with RBC casts, is a hallmark of nephritic syndrome, indicating damage to the glomeruli. In this context, the presence of bacteria is more indicative of a urinary tract infection and does not pertain to nephritic syndrome. Likewise, the presence of glucose in the urine is typically more relevant to diabetes or other conditions leading to hyperglycemia and is not a defining feature of nephritic syndrome. High levels of calcium in the urine relate more to metabolic issues and hyperparathyroidism than to nephritic syndromes. Therefore, the correct description of nephritic syndrome in relation to urine composition is the presence of protein and RBC casts.