Int J Sports Med 1984; 05(5): 237-240
DOI: 10.1055/s-2008-1025912
© Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart · New York

Exercise-Induced Urinary Abnormalities in Long-Distance Runners

P. Gilli, E. De Paoli Vitali, G. Tataranni, A. Farinelli
  • Divisione di Nefrologia, Arcispedale S. Anna, Ferrara, Italy
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
14 March 2008 (online)

Abstract

The post-exercise urine samples from 122 long-distance runners showed evident abnormalities upon microscopic examination in 95% of all subjects. Proteinuria, alone or with microscopic hematuria, was frequently found. Macroscopic hematuria was a rare occurrence.

The urine samples collected in 30 runners before, immediately after the race, and 6, 12, 24, 36, and 48 h later showed a significant post-race decrease in the osmolarity and a significant increase in gamma-glutamyl transferase and N-acetyl-beta-glucosaminidase enzyme activity.

Plasma renin activity and plasma aldosterone, determined before and after the race in nine runners, showed a significant increase in the post-race samples. The abnormal urinary findings disappeared in all cases within 24-36 h.

It can be concluded that urinary abnormalities are very common after exercise. These abnormalities are most often of a “renal” origin, probably due to a temporary hemodynamic impairment, partially of glomerular but principally of tubular function.

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