How Is Glomerulonephritis Diagnosed?

In addition to a complete medical history and physical examination, diagnostic procedures for glomerulonephritis may include the following:

• Urinalysis (to determine levels of protein and red blood cells in the urine) - laboratory examination of urine for various cells and chemicals, such as red blood cells, white blood cells, infection, or excessive protein.
• Blood tests - (to measure the levels of waste products to determine how well the kidneys are filtering)
• Ultrasound of the kidney (to determine whether the shape or size of the kidney is abnormal) - a diagnostic imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves and a computer to create images of blood vessels, tissues, and organs. Ultrasounds are used to view internal organs as they function and to assess blood flow through various vessels.
• Kidney x-ray - (to determine whether the shape or size of the kidney is abnormal)
• Kidney biopsy - a procedure in which tissue samples are removed (with a needle or during surgery) from the kidney for examination under a microscope to determine if cancer or other abnormal cells are present.