clinical features

Last reviewed 10/2023

There are two phases to the presentation of obstructive anuria.

The "period of tolerance" is characterised by:

  • little or no urine production
  • any urine will be:
    • low specific gravity
    • low in urea
    • low in protein (unless haematuria or urinary infection are present)
    • pyuric
  • aching in one or both loins
  • normal apetite and mental state

After 7-10 days the "period of intoxication" arrives. The following symptoms and signs indicate the onset of uraemia:

  • drowsiness
  • dry tongue
  • hypothermia
  • anorexia
  • constricted pupils

The terminal features of twitching and uraemic convulsions may appear as long as three weeks after the onset of anuria.