Hemoglobinuria

/ˌhiːmə.ɡloʊbɪˈnjʊər.i.ə/ noun

Definition

The presence of free hemoglobin in urine, usually indicating damage to red blood cells that allows hemoglobin to leak into the bloodstream and be filtered by kidneys.

Etymology

From 'hemoglobin' + Greek 'ouron' (urine). Developed as a diagnostic term in the 19th century when physicians could observe and describe abnormal urine contents, indicating serious underlying hemolysis or kidney damage.

Kelly Says

Hemoglobinuria turns urine dark red or brown—it's a red flag that red blood cells are being destroyed somewhere in your body, whether from severe burns, transfusion reactions, malaria, or certain medications.

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