Urinalysis and Body Fluids, 5th Edition

A collection of vocabulary flashcards based on concepts related to urinalysis and body fluids for exam preparation.

Red Blood Cells (RBCs)

Smooth, non-nucleated, biconcave disks present in urine.

White Blood Cells (WBCs)

Predominantly neutrophils, involved in immune response, identified under high power.

Epithelial Cells

Cells originating from the urinary tract, categorized as squamous, transitional, or renal tubular epithelial (RTE).

Casts

Elements unique to the kidney, formed in the distal convoluted tubule (DCT) and collecting duct.

Bacteria

Microorganisms that can indicate urinary tract infection (UTI). Rods and cocci may be present.

Yeast

Single, refractile, budding structures found in urine, may be confused with RBCs.

Crystals

Solid particles that may occur in urine; classified as normal or abnormal based on clinical significance.

Sediment Stains

Used in microscopy to enhance visibility of cellular components and identify elements.

Artifact Interference

Substances that may be mistaken for normal urine elements due to size or nature.

Hyaline Casts

Colorless casts seen in urine, low refractive index, associated with nonpathologic conditions.

Fatty Casts

Cast formations indicative of nephrotic syndrome, composed of lipid inclusions.

Granular Casts

Casts with coarse or finely granular appearances, indicative of renal pathology.

Waxy Casts

Brittle, highly refractile casts associated with extreme urine stasis and renal failure.

Broad Casts

Casts formed in the upper collecting duct, associated with renal failure.

Clinical Significance

Assessment of urinary constituents like RBCs and WBCs to determine potential urinary tract issues.

Specimen Preparation

Procedure to ensure accurate examination of urine samples, including timing and preservation.

Centrifugation

Process to separate urine components based on density using controlled speed and time.

Microscopy

Technique used for examining urinary sediment, requiring careful adjustments and light management.

Glomerular Damage

Identified by presence of abnormal RBCs in urine, impacting the assessment of renal health.