The reference values of urea in adult vary between 15 and 45 mg / dL, while in the children the reference value is between 5 and 18 mg / dL.
High urea may be a sign that the kidneys are not functioning properly, although urea levels are not very reliable for renal function, since their elevation is often related to diet and hydration state of the urea. person.
Urea is produced by the metabolism of proteins ingested in the diet, being produced by the liver and eliminated by the kidneys through the urine. When the kidneys lose their ability to filter the blood properly, urea begins to accumulate in the bloodstream and its values become elevated.
In renal failure, blood urea levels are always high. Yet, high urea not always means kidney problems, since their values can be altered in cases of diet rich in proteins, dehydration, infarction, infections, tumors, liver diseases, among other situations. Already the low urea may be related to malnutrition, lack of protein in the diet, liver failure, pregnancy, celiac disease, among other conditions.
Because of all these factors that may alter urea values, urea is usually creatinine, which is a more reliable marker of renal function.
The result of the examination should be interpreted by the doctor who requested it, who will take into account the history and clinical examination of the patient.
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