Question

What happens to blood concentration of plasma proteins in an individual with renal disease that results in either (a) damage to the filtration membrane or (b) decreased filtration at the filtration membrane? (5 points)

Explain why is it important for a pregnant woman to consult with her physician before using any medication? (2 points)

Answer 1

a) damage to the filtration membrane in an individual with renal disease results in loss of bigger molecules like plasma proteins mainly Albumin, RBCs, etc. When Albumin leaks into the tubules, blood loses its capacity to absorb extra fluid from the body. This leads to accumulation of fluid outside the circulatory system in hand, feet, face, etc and causes swelling.

b) decreased filtration at filtration membrane in a renal patient results in no net change in plasma proteins level as anyway, filtration membrane doesn't allow plasma proteins to pass through it into the tubules. However, there would be increase in creatinine, urea, uric acid, ammonia, potassium levels in plasma which can prove fatal.

it is important for a pregnant woman to consult a physician before taking any medication because the growth and development of embro/foetus can be affected by the medications take during gestation. This is due to the fact that foetus and mother are connected through placenta. The foetus is more susceptible to malformation in first three months as it is the time when organogenesis takes place.