What does azotemia refer to?

Azotemia refers specifically to the accumulation of nitrogen waste products, such as urea and creatinine, in the bloodstream. This condition typically arises when the kidneys are not functioning efficiently, leading to a reduced ability to excrete these wastes. Monitoring for azotemia is crucial in patients with kidney disease, as it can indicate declining renal function and necessitate further evaluation or intervention.

The other options describe different physiological conditions: a decrease in red blood cells refers to anemia, excessive electrolytes in the blood can be indicative of an imbalance, and an increase of antibodies may relate to infection or autoimmune conditions but does not pertain to the definitions surrounding renal waste products. Understanding azotemia and its implications is vital for healthcare providers managing patients with renal impairment.