ASYMPTOMATIC HEMATURIA AND PROTEINURIA IN CHILDREN - CAUSES AND APPROPRIATE DIAGNOSTIC STUDIES

The causes of asymptomatic hematuria are divided into 3 groups according to the source of the bleeding. The diagnostic procedures which are reasonable to perform are discussed. There are a number of items in the history which may aid in determining the cause of the hematuria. Among these are a family history suggestive of Alport syndrome, of an infection which might be the antecedent of acute postinfectious glomerulonephritis or of an illness in the past suggestive of Henock-Schoenlein purpura. The causes of proteinuria are also discussed. The most common causes are orthostatic or postural proteinuria, usually occurring in the older child, and subclinical idiopathic nephrotic syndrome, usually seen in young children.