Urinalysis and Body Fluids, 5th Edition Lecture Notes

Flashcards created to assist with the study of key terms and concepts from the Urinalysis and Body Fluids lecture notes.

Macroscopic Examination

The initial assessment of urine through physical parameters such as color, clarity, and chemical results like blood and protein.

Casts

Elements unique to the kidney, formed in the distal convoluted tubule and collecting duct, important for identifying renal conditions.

Sediment

The solid particles that settle at the bottom of a urine specimen after centrifugation, used in microscopic examination.

Epithelial Cells

Cells lining surfaces within the body, including those in the urinary tract, significant for identifying various conditions based on type and quantity.

Hematuria

The presence of blood in urine, indicating possible pathologic issues such as glomerular damage.

Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR)

The rate at which blood is filtered through the kidneys, crucial for assessing kidney function.

Leukocyte Esterase

An enzyme present in white blood cells, used as a marker for urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Microbiology Stains

Dyes used in urinalysis to enhance visualization of urine components under a microscope.

Oval Fat Bodies

Renal tubular epithelial cells that have absorbed lipids; associated with nephrotic syndrome.

Crystal Formation

The precipitation of urine solutes into solid forms; can indicate metabolic issues or kidney disease.

Phase-Contrast Microscopy

A microscopy technique that increases the refractive index, helping with the visualization of casts and mucus threads.

Dysmorphic RBCs

Abnormal red blood cells indicating glomerular bleeding or damage, important in diagnosing kidney disease.

Centrifugation

A laboratory process used to separate components in urine based on density; crucial for sediment preparation.

WBC Casts

Cylindrical structures containing white blood cells; indicative of tubular inflammation or infection.