A 55-year-old female with hypertension presents with persistent microscopic hematuria on routine urinalysis. She has no symptoms, and her blood pressure is 140/90 mmHg. What could be the potential causes, and what are the next steps?
Persistent microscopic hematuria in this patient could indicate a hypertensive nephropathy or other renal pathology. Further evaluation should include checking serum creatinine, proteinuria, and potentially imaging studies like renal ultrasound. If findings suggest glomerular disease, a renal biopsy may be needed. Regardless, better blood pressure control is necessary.