Urinalysis
Synonyms
urine test, UA test, urinalysis
Purpose of a Urine Test
Urinalysis tests urine’s physical, chemical, and microscopic qualities, including colour, clarity, pH, specific gravity, and the presence of glucose, protein, or blood. Healthcare professionals often conduct urine tests to diagnose a range of conditions, including urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney issues, liver diseases, and metabolic disorders such as diabetes.
When these tests indicate a potential infection, they typically follow up with a urine culture and sensitivity test to identify the specific microorganisms involved. Additionally, if the urinalysis reveals the presence of unusual chemicals or metabolites, this may prompt a drug toxicology test. This further investigation is necessary to explore possible substance use or toxicity.
These tests combine to generate a comprehensive diagnostic picture that helps with optimal patient management and treatment planning.
Patient Preparation for Urinalysis
The patient may be asked to stop taking certain medications.
Samples
Collect at least 4 mL of urine in a grey-top Vacutainer transport tube. Use a first-morning clean catch midstream urine sample and store it at room temperature.
Reference Range
pH: 4.7 to 7.7. Glucose: 1 to 15 mg. Proteins: 0 – 0.1g. Bilirubin: 0 to 0.02 mg. Nitrite: Negative
Results Turnaround
1 – 2 days after receipt of samples.
Diseases / Diagnostic Indicators
Urinalysis can detect a variety of conditions based on aberrant findings. For example, an abnormal pH level in urine may indicate kidney stones or a urinary tract infection (UTI). High glucose levels can be a sign of diabetes, whereas the presence of proteins in the urine suggests that the kidneys are not functioning correctly.
The bilirubin, a pigment in bile, may indicate liver or bile duct disorders. A positive nitrite test result often indicates a urinary tract infection (UTI) because bacteria convert nitrates into nitrites in the urine. These markers give helpful information for detecting and treating various medical disorders. For further information on urinalysis, see here.