Urinalysis and Body Fluids, 5th Edition

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts related to the microscopic examination of urine and urinalysis.

Microscopic Examination of Urine

Identification of formed elements such as RBCs, WBCs, epithelial cells, casts, bacteria, yeast, mucus, spermatozoa, crystals, and artifacts.

Centrifugation

A process to separate components of urine by spinning it at high speeds to create sediment.

Sediment Standardization

Methods including the preparation, volume examined, visualization methods, and reporting of results to ensure consistency in analysis.

Casts

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

Leukocyte Esterase

An enzyme used as an indicator for the presence of white blood cells in urine, which suggests infection.

Glomerular Damage

Injury to the glomerular membrane, often indicated by the presence of dysmorphic RBCs and changes in urine composition.

Neutrophils

The predominant type of white blood cell identified in urine, indicating potential infections or inflammation.

Epithelial Cells

Cells from various parts of the urinary tract; can indicate different conditions depending on their type and number.

Hyaline Casts

Cast types frequently seen in urine, normal in low numbers but can indicate dehydration or kidney stress.

Amorphous Urates

Crystals that can form in urine when refrigerated, appear as yellow-brown granules.

Bacteria in Urine

Usually indicative of contamination or infection if present; should be reported alongside WBC counts.

Oval Fat Bodies

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

Cholesterol Crystals

Crystals indicative of nephrotic syndrome, appearing as rectangular plates with notched corners.