Sepsis and dehydration can cause the kidneys to filter blood less effectively, which shows up as abnormal urea and electrolyte levels. These conditions are secondary causes of renal inefficiency, distinct from a primary kidney disease.

Urea, electrolytes, and creatinine are measured as a renal profile because they indicate how well the kidneys are filtering blood. Abnormal results mean the kidneys are not filtering effectively. This inefficiency may be due to a primary renal condition or to a disorder in another body system, and sepsis, dehydration, and hypovolaemia are given as examples of such secondary causes.

Key points

Urea and electrolyte abnormalities indicate reduced kidney filtration.
Sepsis and dehydration can cause inefficient renal function secondary to another body system disorder.
Abnormal results suggest further investigation is needed to identify the underlying cause.

Why might a patient with sepsis or dehydration have abnormal urea and electrolyte levels?