What condition is characterized by excessive nitrogen in the blood?

Azotemia is the condition characterized by an excessive accumulation of nitrogenous waste products, particularly urea and creatinine, in the blood. This condition typically results from the kidneys’ inability to filter these substances effectively, which can be due to various factors, including kidney disease or obstruction of the urinary tract. The key point about azotemia is its direct association with increased levels of nitrogen in the blood.

While hyperazotemia might seem related, it refers specifically to elevated levels of nitrogen waste, but the term azotemia is broader and includes all forms of nitrogenous excess. Uremia, on the other hand, is a more severe condition that develops from prolonged azotemia, leading to significant clinical symptoms due to the toxicity of these waste products. Acidosis refers to an excess of acid in the body and is not directly related to nitrogen levels. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify why azotemia is the correct term for excessive nitrogen in the blood.