Urinalysis with Microscopic Examination

Urinalysis with Microscopic Examination 

Urinalysis with Microscopic Examination is a laboratory test that analyzes a urine sample to detect and evaluate a wide range of disorders, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney disease, diabetes, and more. It includes both chemical and microscopic analysis to provide detailed insights into urinary tract and kidney health. 

1. What Is Included in This Test? 

Urinalysis typically involves three parts: 

• Visual Inspection – Checks the color and clarity of the urine. 

• Chemical Analysis – Uses test strips (dipsticks) to detect substances such as: 

  - pH (acidity) 

  - Specific Gravity (urine concentration) 

  - Protein 

  - Glucose 

  - Ketones 

  - Blood (hematuria) 

  - Leukocyte esterase and nitrites (signs of infection) 

  - Bilirubin and urobilinogen (liver function indicators) 

• Microscopic Examination – Involves analyzing urine sediment under a microscope to detect: 

  - Red blood cells (RBCs) 

  - White blood cells (WBCs) 

  - Epithelial cells 

  - Bacteria, yeast, or parasites 

  - Crystals and casts 

2. Why Is It Performed? 

• Diagnose urinary tract infections (UTIs), hematuria, or kidney disease. 

• Screen for metabolic or systemic diseases (e.g., diabetes, liver disease). 

• Monitor existing kidney or urinary conditions. 

• Evaluate symptoms such as pain during urination, blood in urine, frequent urination, or lower abdominal pain. 

3. What Do the Results Mean? 

🔹 Normal Results: Clear yellow urine with no significant abnormalities in chemical or microscopic findings. 

🔹 Abnormal Results May Indicate: 

• Protein: Kidney damage or nephrotic syndrome 

• Glucose: Poor blood sugar control (possible diabetes) 

• Ketones: Diabetes, fasting, or starvation 

• Blood: Infection, trauma, kidney stones 

• Leukocyte esterase/nitrites: Urinary tract infection 

• Abnormal cells or casts: Kidney inflammation or disease 

4. Factors That Can Affect Results 

• Dehydration or excessive hydration 

• Medications or supplements 

• Recent exercise or menstruation 

• Improper sample collection or storage 

5. How Is the Test Performed? 

• A clean-catch midstream urine sample is collected in a sterile container. 

• The sample is analyzed immediately or refrigerated and processed within 2 hours. 

• Microscopic examination is done by centrifuging the sample to examine sediment under a microscope. 

6. When to See a Doctor 

🚨 Consult your healthcare provider if you: 

• Have abnormal test results, especially with symptoms like pain, burning, or visible blood in urine. 

• Experience repeated urinary tract infections or persistent urinary abnormalities. 

• Have chronic conditions like diabetes or kidney disease that require regular monitoring. 

🔹 Key Takeaways 

✅ Urinalysis with microscopic exam is a vital tool for detecting kidney, urinary tract, and systemic diseases. 

✅ It provides both immediate and detailed microscopic information for accurate diagnosis. 

✅ Always follow up with a healthcare provider for interpretation and next steps.