Abnormal Urine Sediment: What Your Test Results Mean - Urology

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When interpreting urine test results, particularly in the context of abnormal findings, it is essential to understand what each component signifies and how they may relate to your overall health. In your case, the results indicate that while certain parameters like urine glucose, bilirubin, specific gravity, urine protein, and urobilinogen are normal, there are notable abnormalities in urine sediment, particularly concerning hematuria (presence of blood) and leukocyturia (presence of white blood cells).


Understanding Your Results
1. Urine Protein: You mentioned that your urine protein level is normal. This is a positive sign, as elevated protein levels can indicate kidney issues, such as nephrotic syndrome or glomerulonephritis. Since your protein levels are normal, it suggests that your kidneys are functioning well in terms of protein filtration.

2. Urine Blood (Hematuria): The presence of +2 hematuria indicates that there is a significant amount of blood in your urine. This can be caused by various factors, including urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney stones, trauma, or more serious conditions like tumors or glomerular diseases. The presence of 6-10 red blood cells per high power field (RBCs/HPF) further supports this finding.

3. White Blood Cells (Leukocyturia): The presence of +2 leukocytes and 11-20 WBCs/HPF suggests inflammation or infection in the urinary tract. This could be indicative of a urinary tract infection, pyelonephritis (kidney infection), or other inflammatory conditions affecting the urinary system.

4. Epithelial Cells: The presence of 11-20 epithelial cells can be normal, but a higher count may indicate irritation or inflammation in the urinary tract or bladder. It can also be a sign of contamination during the urine collection process.


What Does This Mean for You?
Given that your urine protein is normal, it may provide some reassurance regarding kidney function. However, the presence of hematuria and leukocyturia warrants further investigation. Here are some steps you might consider:
- Follow-Up Testing: It is advisable to follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation. This may include additional urine tests, imaging studies (like an ultrasound), or even a cystoscopy if indicated, to visualize the bladder and urethra.

- Symptoms Review: Pay attention to any symptoms you may be experiencing, such as pain during urination, increased frequency of urination, or any flank pain. These symptoms can provide valuable information to your healthcare provider.

- Potential Causes: Discuss with your doctor the potential causes of your findings. If an infection is suspected, a urine culture may be performed to identify the specific bacteria and determine the appropriate antibiotic treatment.

- Monitoring: If no immediate cause is found, your doctor may recommend monitoring your urine tests over time to see if the abnormalities persist or resolve.


Conclusion
While the normal urine protein level is a positive aspect of your test results, the presence of hematuria and leukocyturia should not be overlooked. It is essential to engage in a thorough discussion with your healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause of these abnormalities and to establish an appropriate plan for further evaluation and management. Early detection and treatment of any potential issues can significantly impact your health outcomes.