Clinical Analysis of Urine

Urine analysis, typically known as urinalysis, can be done in multiple ways. When done clinically (i.e., by a licensed doctor or nurse), a urinalysis can provide key information about a patient's condition. It is an easily-obtainable, non-invasive procedure. Information about urine and any abnormalities in it can be procured quickly, often within minutes of obtaining a urine sample.

Types

• There are three different types of urine analysis: visual, dipstick and microscopic exam. With visual analysis, a doctor or nurse looks at the urine and its respective consistency or clarity. A diagnosis may be given based on the visual information given by the urine. A dipstick is a thin plastic stick with several chemical strips. These strips change color based on the presence or absence of certain chemicals within the urine. In a microscopic exam, urine is examined under a microscope in an attempt to detect any foreign agents or abnormalities present.

Visual

• A visual test is typically only the first step to a proper urine analysis. Much can be determined from the general appearance of urine. For example, urine that appears brown or red is usually mixed with blood, a viable indication of internal bleeding or liver cancer. Infection may cause the urine to cloud, giving it a muted or hazy color. Other factors, such as an abnormal smell, are also considered when giving urine a visual examination.

Dipstick

• A dipstick is not only able to indicate the presence or absence of a chemical; it can also determine which are above or below their average levels. For example, high levels of acidity may indicate the presence of kidney infection or urinary tract disorder. Any measurable amount of sugar in the urine is typically grounds to test for diabetes. A substance known as bilirubin is a product of the breakdown of red blood cells. Its presence in urine may indicate liver damage or disease.

Microscopic Exam

• This particular exam incorporates the simple task of viewing urine under a microscope. Doing this provides visual proof of several different cells or agents. Things a doctor will typically look for include white blood cells (leukocytes), red blood cells, bacteria, yeasts and proteins. Depending on which agent or cell is found, a urinalysis may signify the presence of tumors, cancer or infection. A microscopic exam may also reveal the presence of crystals, which move into the urinary tract from the kidneys and may be a sign of kidney stones.

Warning

• Clinical urine tests are not 100% accurate in determining the presence or absence of a disease or internal complication. Some are time-sensitive. Others are easily contaminated and therefore highly volatile. Doctors will typically schedule additional testing post urinalysis to obtain greater insight into the exact condition of a patient.