Final answer:
In cases of proteinuria in a child, a urinalysis is the first diagnostic test performed, which may be followed by serum albumin level testing. Management of underlying conditions like diabetes and hypertension is crucial while monitoring kidney function. Treatment varies depending on whether the proteinuria is benign or due to pathological causes.
Step-by-step explanation:
Best Test and Management for Pediatric Proteinuria
When a child presents with proteinuria, which is the presence of abnormal protein levels in the urine, it's important to determine the cause. The urinalysis is often the first test administered to assess kidney function. It examines physical, chemical, and microscopic properties of urine. If the urinalysis suggests kidney damage or disease, further tests, such as measurement of serum albumin levels, may be necessary. The presence of albumin in the urine, known as albuminuria, is often an indicator of conditions such as diabetic nephropathy.
For management, controlling underlying conditions like diabetes and hypertension is crucial. It's also important to monitor the kidney function regularly. In some cases, such as with physiological proteinuria, it may be benign and observed in situations like vigorous exercises or orthostatic proteinuria. In pathologic conditions, specific treatments may be prescribed based on the underlying cause, which could include autoimmune diseases or conditions like multiple myeloma.