Final answer:
Proteinuria refers to the presence of excess protein in urine, usually indicating kidney damage, and can be physiological or pathological. Albuminuria is its most common form, with Bence Jones proteins indicating specific conditions like multiple myeloma.
Step-by-step explanation:
Proteinuria: Indications and Types
When protein is found in urine, it's known as proteinuria, which often indicates damage to the glomeruli of the kidneys. This condition allows proteins such as albumin to leak into the urine, a situation not normally expected. Normal urine should contain only trace amounts of protein, about 10 mg/100 mL. The presence of a significantly higher level of protein suggests possible kidney issues, including diabetic nephropathy or other forms of kidney damage.
There are two main types of albuminuria, which is proteinuria's most common form. Physiological albuminuria is not associated with any disease and can be observed in conditions such as pregnancy, vigorous exercise, and orthostatic proteinuria. On the other hand, pathological albuminuria may be present in chronic diseases, like diabetes or hypertension, and it requires medical attention to manage the underlying cause and prevent further kidney damage.
In addition to albumin, other special proteins like Bence Jones proteins may be present in urine; these are associated with multiple myeloma and other malignancies. Detecting the type and amount of protein in urine is critical for diagnosing and managing various kidney diseases.