Urinalysis

What it can help assess

A clinician may use urinalysis when evaluating urinary symptoms, possible infection, blood in urine, kidney problems, stones, diabetes-related concerns, or general health. An abnormal result is a clue, not a complete diagnosis.

Collecting the sample

Follow the instructions provided. A clean-catch sample is commonly requested to reduce contamination. Some situations require a timed collection or a sample obtained in another way. Tell the team if you are menstruating, taking medicine that changes urine color, or had difficulty collecting the sample.

Understanding results

A report may include appearance, concentration, acidity, blood, protein, glucose, ketones, nitrite, leukocyte esterase, cells, crystals, or microorganisms. Not every panel includes every item. Reference ranges and significance differ, and false-positive or contaminated results can occur.

Limitations

Urinalysis may suggest the need for culture, microscopy, blood tests, imaging, or repeat testing. A normal urinalysis does not rule out every urinary condition.

Questions to ask a clinician

• Which parts of my result were abnormal?
• Could collection or contamination affect the result?
• Do I need a urine culture or repeat sample?
• How does this result fit with my symptoms and other tests?