Why is it not cystitis given the presence of moderate hematuria (blood in urine), proteinuria (30), hemoglobinuria is not present but 30 RBCs, moderate bacteriuria, elevated C-Reactive Protein (CRP) of 41.2, and other lab results including Complete Blood Count (CBC) showing band neutrophils of 1.2 and lymphocytes of 0.6, Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) showing low carbon dioxide (CO2) level of 18?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: March 11, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Differential Diagnosis

  • Single most likely diagnosis
    • Pyelonephritis: The presence of moderate blood, protein, and RBCs in the urine, along with moderate bacteria, suggests an upper urinary tract infection. The elevated CRP (41.2) and the abnormal CBC results (bands absolute 1.2, lymphocytes absolute 0.6) also support a systemic infection, making pyelonephritis the most likely diagnosis.
  • Other Likely diagnoses
    • Sepsis: The elevated CRP and abnormal CBC results could indicate a systemic infection, and the presence of bacteria in the urine suggests a possible source of sepsis.
    • Kidney stones: The presence of blood and protein in the urine could be indicative of kidney stones, which could also be causing an infection.
  • Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
    • Septic shock: Although less likely, septic shock is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate attention. The elevated CRP and abnormal CBC results could be indicative of septic shock, especially if the patient is showing signs of hypotension or organ dysfunction.
    • Emphysematous pyelonephritis: This is a rare but life-threatening condition that occurs when an upper urinary tract infection causes gas to form in the kidney tissue. Although less likely, it is essential to consider this diagnosis, especially if the patient has diabetes or is immunocompromised.
  • Rare diagnoses
    • Glomerulonephritis: The presence of protein and blood in the urine could be indicative of glomerulonephritis, an inflammation of the kidney's filtering units. However, this diagnosis is less likely given the presence of bacteria in the urine and the systemic infection suggested by the CBC and CRP results.
    • Tubulointerstitial nephritis: This is a rare condition that causes inflammation of the kidney's tubules and interstitial tissue. Although possible, it is less likely given the presence of bacteria in the urine and the systemic infection suggested by the CBC and CRP results.

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.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.