THEionograms urinary is an examination which consists in measuring, in urine concentration of electrolytes or ions.

The main ions studied are:

• le sodium (natriuria)

• le Potassium (kaliuri)

• le chlorine (chloruria)

• le calcium (calciurie)

Note that the rates of bicarbonates, phosphorus, magnesium, but alsourea or even creatinine can also be measured during a urinary ionogram.

A urine ionogram provides information on thethe body’s fluid and electrolyte balance, that is to say the existing balance between water and the different ions. This is mainly provided by the kidneys, which have the role of filtering the urine. It can be disturbed in case of kidney disease, severe vomiting, diarrhea or dehydration.

The urine ionogram is rarely prescribed on its own. It is performed and interpreted with a blood ionogram. As a result, it makes it possible to determine the role of the kidneys in any metabolic disorders presented on the blood ionogram.

The different electrolytes are assayed using the total urine volume produced in 24 hours. Urine is collected in a single container provided for this purpose and provided by medical personnel. The examination is a little restrictive because it requires not to leave your home or at least not to urinate elsewhere for 24 hours.

This examination gives indications to the doctor on the state ofhydration of an individual and on his acid-base balance, which reflects the correct kidney function. The results are interpreted with those of the blood ionogram.

The so-called normal concentrations of the main ions measured during a urine ionogram are, as an indication:

• Sodium (natriurie): between 50 and 300 mmol / 24 h (millimoles per 24 hours)

An increase may be a sign of adrenal insufficiency (Addison’s disease), damage to interstitial kidney tissue (interstitial nephropathy) or even a diet that is too salty.

A decrease can mean kidney failure, digestive losses (diarrhea, vomiting) or even heavy sweating.

• Potassium (kaliurie): between 20 and 120 mmol / 24 h

High levels of potassium in the urine can be associated with kidney failure, Cushing’s syndrome or a diet that is too high in potassium.

A low rate can mean an absorption problem or a digestive anomaly.

• Chlorine (chloruria): between 50 and 220 mmol / 24 h

A high level of chlorine in the urine may indicate adrenal insufficiency.

A low level can be a sign of dehydration or even heavy vomiting.

• Calcium (urinary calcium): between 100 and 400 mg / 24 h (milligrams per 24 hours)

An increase may be a sign of bone disease, kidney stones, or vitamin D poisoning.

A decrease may be associated with kidney failure or rickets.

Note that these values ​​may vary depending on the laboratories performing the analyzes.