Urinalysis
500 Kshs | Home Collection Available
Synonyms
urine test, UA test, urinalysis
Purpose of a Urine Test
A urinalysis test examines the physical, chemical, and microscopic qualities of your urine, including color, 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 the urine test detects a potential infection, it is followed up with a urine culture and sensitivity test to identify the specific microorganisms involved. In addition, if the urinalysis reveals the presence of unusual chemicals or metabolites, a drug toxicology test may be performed to confirm or eliminate the possibility of substance use or toxicity.
Combining these tests generates a comprehensive diagnosis that helps in planning for proper treatment and patient management.
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
A Urinalysis test 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.
When Bilirubin (a yellow substance found in bile) is detected, it may indicate there’s a problem with the liver or bile ducts. In addition, a positive nitrite test result often indicates a urinary tract infection (UTI) because bacteria convert nitrates into nitrites in the urine. These markers provide valuable information for diagnosing and treating various medical conditions. For further information on urine tests, see here.