Diseases, Conditions & Concerns / Question
Published: June 14, 2005
Dear TeenHealthFX,
Our 14 year-old has been diagnosed with hypercalcuria. Today he had a urine sample that looked like the color of tea. The sample was loaded with protein. What does this mean.
Signed: Diagnosed With Hypercalcuria
Dear Diagnosed With Hypercalcuria,
Hypercalcuria is the presence of an abnormally high concentration of calcium in a person's urine. It can either be primary or secondary. Primary Hypercalcuria is either "absorptive" where there is an increase in intestinal calcium absorption or "renal" where kidneys leak calcium. Secondary Hypercalcuria maybe associated with several clinical disorders such as distal renal tubular acidosis, hyperparathyroidism, hypercalcemia, Bartter's syndrome as well as excessive sodium intake.
Your child's tea colored urine is evidence of blood in the urine. Protein in the urine along with blood and excess calcium signals the need for a thorough evaluation of kidney function by a doctor specializing in this area (Nephrologist).
If you don't have a doctor and live in northern New Jersey, you can call the Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at 973-971-6475 for an appointment. Outside of this area check with your local hospital or ask your primary care physician for a referral.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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