American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

What is an important consideration for patients with a family history of hematuria?

1. Immediate surgery

2. Regular monitoring of kidney function

3. Frequent imaging studies

4. Counseling for genetic testing

The correct answer is: Regular monitoring of kidney function

An important consideration for patients with a family history of hematuria is regular monitoring of kidney function. Individuals with a family history of hematuria may be at increased risk for hereditary kidney conditions, such as polycystic kidney disease or Alport syndrome. These conditions can lead to progressive kidney damage, thus necessitating consistent monitoring to assess renal function over time. Regular monitoring can involve periodic assessments of serum creatinine, glomerular filtration rate (GFR), and urinalysis to detect any changes or deterioration in kidney function early. This proactive approach helps in timely interventions that can prevent complications associated with declining kidney health. It allows for identifying potential issues before they progress, ensuring that patients receive appropriate management strategies based on their specific risks. This focus on monitoring is differentiated from more invasive or reactive measures such as immediate surgery, which is typically reserved for specific, acute conditions; frequent imaging studies, which may not be necessary unless there are significant changes in clinical status; and counseling for genetic testing, which could be relevant but is more specialized and not as universally applicable as regular monitoring.