Final answer:
Proteinuria is the presence of excess proteins in a patient's urine, which may indicate kidney issues. For a 12-year-old, it can be transient or persistent and may include symptoms like swelling and foamy urine. Treatment involves addressing the underlying condition and possibly using medication to manage symptoms.
Step-by-step explanation:
Proteinuria is a medical condition characterized by the presence of excess proteins in the urine. This can be a sign of kidney damage or other underlying health issues. In children, it may be transient, occurring due to factors like fever, exercise, or stress, or it might be persistent, which warrants further investigation by a healthcare professional. A healthy kidney typically does not allow a significant amount of protein to pass into the urine, so the presence of proteinuria in a 12-year-old patient indicates that there might be an issue with kidney function that needs to be addressed.
Symptoms of proteinuria can vary, but it often has no signs in the early stages. More noticeable symptoms may include swelling (edema), particularly around the eyes, feet, and ankles, and foamy urine. Management of proteinuria involves treating the underlying condition causing it and may involve medication to control symptoms or to protect the kidneys.