Ketonuria
Ketonuria is a condition characterized by the presence of an unusually high amount of ketone bodies in the urine. Ketones (acetoninic compounds) are by-products of fat and protein metabolism, including acetoacetate, β-hydroxybutyrate, and acetone.
Causes:
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Starvation or Inadequate Nutrition: When the body is unable to obtain sufficient energy from carbohydrates, it begins to break down fats for energy, leading to the production of ketone bodies.
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Diabetes Mellitus (especially Type 1): Due to a lack of insulin, the body cannot properly utilize glucose for energy, so it starts breaking down fats.
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Intense Physical Exercise: Prolonged or intense physical activity can stimulate the breakdown of fats for energy, leading to the formation of ketones.
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Illness or Infections: Certain illnesses and infections can increase metabolic activity and energy demands, encouraging fat breakdown.
Symptoms:
- Ketonuria often has no clear symptoms in its early stages.
- Urine with a fruity or acetone odor (due to acetone) can be an early sign.
- High levels of ketone bodies may cause fatigue, weakness, increased thirst, nausea, or vomiting.
Diagnosis:
- Urine Tests: Ketonuria is diagnosed by measuring the amount of ketone bodies in the urine using chemical solutions or test strips that change color upon contact with ketones.
- Blood Tests: Sometimes, ketone levels are measured in the blood, particularly during the management of diabetes.
Treatment:
- For Diabetics: Insulin therapy and glucose control to reduce ketone production.
- In Starvation or Inadequate Nutrition Cases: Ensuring a balanced diet to provide the body with adequate glucose for energy.
- In Cases of Illness or Infections: Treating the underlying cause of the illness or infection.
Source | Glossary of Most Commonly Used Biomedical Terms and Concepts | Lithuanian University of Health Sciences | Academician Professor Antanas Praškevičius, Professor Laima Ivanovienė