|
Questions posted in the
The Urology Forum have been answered by urologists from Henry Ford Health System and by Dr. Kevin Pho.
| ||||
|
Subject: Re: blood in urine I have recently been diagnosed as having lupus disease. now my doctor says that he has found speckled blood cells in my urine.is that a symptom of lupus or could this be something more serious? he couldnt give me a definite answer. he says he has to run more tests. could to tell of the possibilities??
Dear Willie Thanks for your questions. I am not a nephrologist but I will try to answer your question. As you know, Lupus is an autoimmune disease that can attack the kidneys. The antibody level in your system should rise if this is attack is acute as well as the protein leakage into the urine. If your doctors test are inconclusive as to the cause of the microscopic analysis shown red blood cells in your urine, ( not just a dip stick, too insensitive) then a hematuria work-up should be recommended especially if you have ever smoked or have a family history of genitourinary cancer. This usually includes an IVP, (a dye test to look at the kidney and ureters) a cystoscopy (a look in the bladder with a lighted telescope) and possibly a urine cytology (urine test for abnormal cells) . These test can turn up stones , tumors or possibly nothing. A person with a negative microscopic hematuria work-up does not require further work-up for another 3 to 5 years depending on their risk factors, i.e. a smoker etc. More individualized care is available at the Henry Ford Hospital and its urban campuses by calling (1 800 653 6568). We can also arrange local accommodations through this number if this is your need. Please bring any physicians notes and lab test results that you may be able to obtain. These will help us greatly. This information is provided for general medical education purposes only. Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options pertaining to your specific medical condition. |
| |||