Chemistries

No evidence supports universal screening of asymptomatic refugees for electrolyte and other chemistry abnormalities. However, a basic panel including blood urea nitrogen and creatinine should be considered if indicated by signs, symptoms, or comorbidities. A basic panel may also be considered in certain groups with high rates of chronic renal disease, such as the Hmong. In addition, uric acid in Hmong refugees may be considered, since the prevalence of hyperuricemia and related diseases such as gout and end-stage renal disease is high in this population.