In which condition might you find an elevated level of urea in urine?

An elevated level of urea in urine is primarily associated with dehydration or increased protein metabolism. In a dehydrated state, the body conserves water, concentrating urine and leading to a higher concentration of urea. Increased protein metabolism occurs when there is heightened protein breakdown or intake, resulting in more urea production as a byproduct of amino acid degradation. This elevated urea concentration reflects the body's metabolic adaptations to either limited water availability or a dietary excess of protein.

In contrast, chronic kidney disease typically leads to reduced kidney function, ultimately causing decreased urea excretion and potentially lower levels in urine. In cirrhosis of the liver, there are metabolic disturbances that can alter urea synthesis and result in lower urinary urea concentrations due to impaired liver function. In urinary tract infections, while there may be several changes in urine composition, a marked increase in urea is not a characteristic finding. Thus, dehydration or increased protein metabolism is the primary condition linked to elevated urea levels in the urine.