Tests, tests and more tests

We met with a Nephrologist today to try and figure out why Jack has protein in his urine.  We talked a lot and answered lots of questions.  Basically there could be one of three things causing this - 1) a defect that he was born with, 2) an infection or 3) an autoimmune disease.  So now we have a few tests to perform to try and figure out which of those three it is, if possible.  We may also be able to figure out if his kidney is causing the inflammation as well.  Next week we have to do a 24 hour urine where we collect all his urine in a 24 hour period which will give them a better idea of exactly how much protein is coming out of his kidney.  We also need to do more blood work, specifically fasting blood work.  This is to test his blood sugar level along with other things.  The last test is an ultrasound on the 24th.  This will show them if there are any abnormalities in how his kidneys look.  If the above tests don't tell us what we need to know or point to the fact that they need more information, a kidney biopsy may need to be done.  I am hoping that we don't have to go that route because it certainly doesn't sound fun.