A urine test (urinalysis) examines your urine with a dipstick and under the microscope. It looks for infection, sugar, protein, blood and signs of liver or kidney problems.
Why is it done?
It is ordered for burning or frequent urination, back pain, routine check-ups, pregnancy visits, and monitoring of diabetes and kidney disease.
How to prepare
Collect a clean, mid-stream sample, preferably the first urine of the morning. Women should avoid testing during their period if possible.
How to read your results
Pus cells and positive nitrite suggest infection. Protein can be an early sign of kidney damage. Glucose suggests high blood sugar. Blood needs repeating and, if persistent, investigating.
Tests in this panel and their normal ranges
| Test | Normal range (adults) |
|---|---|
| Urine pH | 4.5–8 |
| Urine Specific Gravity | 1.003–1.03 |
| Urine Protein | Negative (less than 15 mg/dL) |
| Urine Glucose (Sugar) | Negative |
| Urine Ketones | Negative |
| Blood in Urine (Hematuria) | Negative |
| Urine Pus Cells (Leukocytes) | Up to 5 /hpf |
| Urine Nitrite | Negative |
| Urine Bilirubin | Negative |
| Urobilinogen | 0.1–1 mg/dL (1.69–16.9 µmol/L) |
Ranges vary slightly between laboratories. The range printed on your own report is the one to go by.
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This page is for general education and is not a diagnosis. Normal ranges differ between laboratories, so always compare your result with the reference range printed on your own report, and discuss abnormal results with your doctor.