1st order laboratory parameters – obligatory laboratory tests.
- Small blood count
- Inflammatory parameters – CRP (C-reactive protein) or ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate).
- Urine status (rapid test for: pH, leukocytes, nitrite, protein, blood), sediment, if necessary urine culture (pathogen detection and resistogram, that is, testing of suitable antibiotics for sensitivity / resistance).
- Erythrocyte morphology (shape of the erythrocytes / red blood cells) by phase contrast microscopy [dysmorphic erythrocytes (malformed red blood cells): especially acanthocytes (= erythrocytes with “Mickey Mouse ears”); acanthocytes are an expression of glomerular bleeding].
- Electrolytes – sodium, potassium
- Renal parameters – urea, creatinine
- Uric acid
- 24-h urine volume – to determine creatinine clearance and proteinuria differentiation.
- Serum protein
- Serum electrophoresis – to determine the proportions of the various proteins (protein fractions).
- Total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, triglycerides.
- Anti-GBM (glomerular basement membrane).
- C3 nephritis factor
- C-ANCA
- P-ANCA
Laboratory parameters 2nd order – depending on the results of the history, physical examination, etc. – for differential diagnostic clarification.
- Immune complexes
