What does it mean if a child's routine urine test shows a high red blood cell count, and what should be done?
Apr 17, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Introduction
Elevated red blood cells in a child's routine urinalysis may be caused by vigorous exercise, urethritis, nutcracker syndrome, urinary tract stones, acute glomerulonephritis, or other factors such as medications or systemic lupus erythematosus. If the underlying cause is unclear, it is recommended to have the child undergo relevant examinations to establish a clear diagnosis before initiating treatment.
Generally, elevated red blood cells in a child's routine urinalysis may be caused by strenuous exercise, urethritis, nutcracker syndrome, urinary tract stones, acute glomerulonephritis, and other conditions. If the child experiences any physical discomfort, timely medical consultation and symptomatic treatment are recommended. Details are as follows:
1. Strenuous Exercise
If a child frequently engages in strenuous physical activities such as running or playing basketball, the blood vessels in the urethra may rupture after intense exercise, leading to elevated red blood cell levels in the urinalysis. It is recommended to avoid strenuous exercise for now, drink more water, and the condition should improve accordingly.
2. Urethritis
In some cases, poor personal hygiene may lead to urethritis, causing damage to the urethral mucosa and resulting in hematuria, thereby increasing the red blood cell count in the urinalysis. In such cases, patients can take medications such as Cefaclor granules or Amoxicillin granules as directed by a physician.
3. Nutcracker Syndrome
Patients with nutcracker syndrome may experience compression of the renal vein, which can lead to hematuria and proteinuria. Patients can undergo ultrasound examination for a clear diagnosis and then take medications such as prednisone acetate tablets or Irbesartan tablets as directed by a physician.
4. Urinary Tract Stones
If urinary tract stones are present, the movement of the stones may irritate the urethral mucosa, causing mucosal damage, which leads to elevated red blood cell levels in the urinalysis. Patients can take medications such as Shitongning Oral Liquid or Shitong Granules as directed by a physician for treatment.
5. Acute Glomerulonephritis
Acute glomerulonephritis can also cause elevated red blood cells in routine urinalysis, mainly presenting as hematuria, proteinuria, and body edema. It is recommended that parents seek timely medical attention for their child and administer medications such as Azithromycin granules or Hydrochlorothiazide tablets as directed by a physician.
In addition to the above, elevated red blood cells in a child's routine urinalysis may also be caused by medication factors, systemic lupus erythematosus, and other conditions. If the exact cause is unclear, it is recommended to have the child undergo relevant examinations to make a clear diagnosis before initiating treatment. At the same time, attention should be paid to maintaining a bland diet and avoiding overly spicy and irritating foods.
