1. <biochemistry> An excess in the blood of urea, creatinine and other nitrogenous end products of protein and amino acids metabolism, more correctly referred to as azotaemia.

2. <nephrology> In current usage the entire constellation of signs and symptoms of chronic renal failure including nausea, vomiting anorexia, a metallic taste in the mouth, a uraemic odour of the breath, pruritus, uraemic frost on the skin, neuromuscular disorders, pain and twitching in the muscles, hypertension, oedema, mental confusion and acid base and electrolyte imbalances.

Origin: Gr. Ouron = urine, haima = blood

American spelling: uremia

(11 Mar 2008)