Manitoba Nephrology Nurse Practice Test

What is a consequence of increased protein catabolism?

1. Improved muscle mass

2. Negative nitrogen balance

3. Enhanced nutritional status

4. Increased body weight

The correct answer is: Negative nitrogen balance

Increased protein catabolism leads to a breakdown of proteins in the body for energy or other metabolic needs. This process generates nitrogenous waste products as proteins are a primary source of nitrogen. When protein breakdown exceeds protein intake, the body may not retain sufficient nitrogen, resulting in a negative nitrogen balance. This condition indicates that the body is losing more nitrogen than it is taking in, which can negatively impact muscle mass and overall health. In contrast, improved muscle mass and enhanced nutritional status would generally require a positive nitrogen balance, where protein intake exceeds protein breakdown. Increased body weight is often associated with factors like calorie surplus or fluid retention, rather than directly with increased protein catabolism. Therefore, a negative nitrogen balance is the most accurate consequence of increased protein catabolism, demonstrating a state of protein deficiency rather than adequacy.