What does the term "azotemia" indicate in clinical pathology?

Azotemia refers to an accumulation of nitrogen-containing compounds, such as urea and creatinine, in the blood. This indicates that the kidneys are not functioning properly, as their primary role is to filter out these waste products from the bloodstream. Elevated levels of these compounds can be a sign of renal dysfunction, dehydration, or other conditions affecting the kidneys.

In contrast, the other choices represent different conditions unrelated to azotemia. Excessive bleeding in the bloodstream pertains to hematological issues not related to nitrogen metabolism. A decreased red blood cell count points toward anemia or related disorders rather than kidney function. Low protein levels in urine could suggest renal issues, but it does not accurately define the term azotemia, which specifically relates to elevated nitrogen levels in the blood.