What causes hematuria with visible bubbles in the urine?

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Last updated: May 8, 2025View editorial policy

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Differential Diagnosis for Bubble in Urine

  • Single most likely diagnosis
    • Proteinuria: The presence of bubbles or foam in the urine is often indicative of proteinuria, which is a common symptom of kidney damage or disease. This condition leads to an excess of protein in the urine, causing it to foam or bubble.
  • Other Likely diagnoses
    • Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): A UTI can cause changes in urine appearance, including the presence of bubbles or foam, due to the infection and resulting inflammation.
    • Dehydration: Inadequate fluid intake can lead to concentrated urine, which may appear foamy or bubbly.
    • Kidney Stones: The presence of kidney stones can cause changes in urine, including foam or bubbles, due to the obstruction and irritation they cause in the urinary tract.
  • Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
    • Nephrotic Syndrome: A severe condition characterized by heavy proteinuria, nephrotic syndrome can lead to significant complications, including kidney failure, if left untreated.
    • Goodpasture's Syndrome: A rare autoimmune disease that affects the kidneys and lungs, Goodpasture's syndrome can cause renal failure and requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.
  • Rare diagnoses
    • Amyloidosis: A condition characterized by the deposition of abnormal proteins in various organs, including the kidneys, amyloidosis can cause proteinuria and foamy urine.
    • Fabry Disease: A rare genetic disorder that affects the kidneys and other organs, Fabry disease can cause proteinuria and other urinary symptoms.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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