Urinalysis

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary and concepts related to urinalysis, including definitions and clinical relevance.

Urinalysis

The chemical analysis of urine, often performed for in vitro diagnostics, that includes physical, chemical, and microscopic examinations.

Specific Gravity

A measure of how much stuff is dissolved in the urine, indicating hydration levels; normal range is 1.005-1.030.

pH

A measure of how acidic or alkaline the urine is, with a normal range of 4.6-8.0; indicates potential dietary problems or infections.

Leukocyte Esterase

An enzyme that indicates the presence of white blood cells in urine, suggesting a urinary tract infection (UTI).

Bilirubin

A substance formed by the breakdown of red blood cells; not normally found in urine; presence may indicate liver damage or blocked bile flow.

Glucose

A sugar normally absent from urine; presence indicates high blood sugar levels and may signal uncontrolled diabetes.

Ketones

Byproducts of protein or fat metabolism; large amounts can indicate ketoacidosis or other metabolic abnormalities.

Nitrites

Formed from nitrates in urine by bacteria; presence usually indicates a urinary tract infection (UTI).

Urochrome

A substance from the breakdown of bilirubin that gives urine its characteristic yellow color, especially when concentrated.

Casts

Material that can form in the kidneys and be flushed into urine; helps indicate the type of kidney disease present.

Protein

Usually not found in urine, or only in trace amounts; significant levels may indicate kidney damage, inflammation, or other issues.

Blood (Hemoglobin)

The presence of blood or hemoglobin in urine, which can indicate kidney disease, urinary tract stones, infection, or trauma.

Red Blood Cells (RBCs)

Microscopic examination for RBCs in urine; their presence (hematuria) can indicate injury, kidney stones, or inflammation.

White Blood Cells (WBCs)

Microscopic examination for WBCs in urine; an increased number (pyuria) is a strong indicator of a urinary tract infection or inflammation.