Urinalysis
Also known as: UA, Urine Test, Urine Analysis, Routine Urinalysis
A urinalysis is a test of your urine that examines its visual appearance, chemical composition, and microscopic contents. It is one of the most versatile and commonly performed diagnostic tests, capable of detecting a wide range of conditions from urinary tract infections to kidney disease to diabetes.
Purpose
Diagnosing urinary tract infections (UTIs). Screening for kidney disease, liver disease, and diabetes. Monitoring known conditions such as kidney disease or diabetes. Pre-surgical evaluation. Pregnancy testing and monitoring. Investigating symptoms like painful urination, blood in urine, frequent urination, or abdominal/back pain.
Preparation
Generally no special preparation needed. You may be asked to collect a 'clean-catch' midstream sample. For some tests, a first morning urine sample is preferred (more concentrated). Certain foods (beets, berries) and medications can affect urine color — inform your provider. Menstruating women should inform the provider as blood can affect results.
Procedure
You are given a sterile container. Clean the genital area with the provided wipe. Begin urinating into the toilet, then collect the midstream portion in the container. Cap the container and return it to the lab or nurse. The sample is analyzed using dipstick testing, visual examination, and microscopic analysis. Results from dipstick testing can be available in minutes.
Normal Range
Color: Pale yellow to amber. Clarity: Clear to slightly cloudy. pH: 4.5–8.0. Specific gravity: 1.005–1.030. Protein: Negative. Glucose: Negative. Ketones: Negative. Blood: Negative. Leukocyte esterase: Negative. Nitrites: Negative. Bilirubin: Negative.
Abnormal Results
Protein in urine (proteinuria) may indicate kidney disease, preeclampsia, or urinary infection. Glucose in urine suggests uncontrolled diabetes. Blood (hematuria) may indicate UTI, kidney stones, bladder cancer, or kidney disease. Positive leukocyte esterase and/or nitrites strongly suggest urinary tract infection. Ketones may indicate diabetic ketoacidosis, starvation, or very low-carb diets. Abnormal pH can indicate UTI, kidney stones, or metabolic conditions.
Risks
No risks — urinalysis is a completely non-invasive test.
Turnaround Time
Dipstick results in minutes. Full urinalysis with microscopy in 1–24 hours. Urine culture (if ordered) takes 24–48 hours.
Estimated Cost
$5–$50 without insurance. One of the most affordable lab tests.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Urinalysis test?▼
A urinalysis is a test of your urine that examines its visual appearance, chemical composition, and microscopic contents. It is one of the most versatile and commonly performed diagnostic tests, capable of detecting a wide range of conditions from urinary tract infections to kidney disease to diabetes.
What is the normal range for a Urinalysis?▼
Color: Pale yellow to amber. Clarity: Clear to slightly cloudy. pH: 4.5–8.0. Specific gravity: 1.005–1.030. Protein: Negative. Glucose: Negative. Ketones: Negative. Blood: Negative. Leukocyte esterase: Negative. Nitrites: Negative. Bilirubin: Negative.
How do I prepare for a Urinalysis?▼
Generally no special preparation needed. You may be asked to collect a 'clean-catch' midstream sample. For some tests, a first morning urine sample is preferred (more concentrated). Certain foods (beets, berries) and medications can affect urine color — inform your provider. Menstruating women should inform the provider as blood can affect results.
What do abnormal Urinalysis results mean?▼
Protein in urine (proteinuria) may indicate kidney disease, preeclampsia, or urinary infection. Glucose in urine suggests uncontrolled diabetes. Blood (hematuria) may indicate UTI, kidney stones, bladder cancer, or kidney disease. Positive leukocyte esterase and/or nitrites strongly suggest urinary tract infection. Ketones may indicate diabetic ketoacidosis, starvation, or very low-carb diets. Abnormal pH can indicate UTI, kidney stones, or metabolic conditions.
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Medical Disclaimer
This lab test information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Lab results should always be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider who knows your complete medical history. Normal ranges may vary between laboratories.