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Which condition is characterized by an excessive production of urine?

  1. Oliguria

  2. Polyuria

  3. Anuria

  4. Hematuria

The correct answer is: Polyuria

Polyuria is characterized by an excessive production of urine, defined as the excretion of more than 3 liters of urine per day in adults. This condition can be due to various factors, including diabetes mellitus, diabetes insipidus, and certain medications. It often indicates an underlying issue with the body’s ability to concentrate urine, leading to a large volume of dilute urine being expelled. Conditions like oliguria, anuria, and hematuria involve reduced urine output or the presence of blood in urine, which are distinctly different from polyuria. Oliguria refers to a significantly decreased urine output, often less than 400 milliliters per day, indicating potential kidney dysfunction. Anuria is even more severe, representing a near-complete cessation of urine production. Hematuria, on the other hand, involves the presence of blood in the urine, which is a symptom rather than a measure of urine quantity. Thus, polyuria distinctly stands apart as the condition that involves excessive urine production.