Expert: Newell R. Falkinburg, M.D., FACP - 6/13/2008

Question
The Dr. has ordered a urine protien and creatinine for my husband and we would like to know what they look for in those test as a few months ago was put on medication for his diabetes.

Answer
Dear Cindy,

A kidney disease called diabetic nephropathy often complicates long standing diabetes.  This is probably what your doctor is looking for.  

Protein in the urine (proteinuria) and blood in the urine (hematuria) are the two big red flags for kidney disease and are screened for by many kidney function tests.

Hope this is useful to you.

Sincerely,

Dr. Falkinburg