Urethritis: Can Contamination Affect Test Results? - Urology

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Urethritis, or inflammation of the urethra, can indeed present a challenge in diagnosis, particularly when it comes to interpreting urine test results. Your question about whether contamination can affect test results is very pertinent, especially in light of the symptoms and circumstances you've described.

When urine samples are collected for analysis, it's crucial to ensure that the sample is as clean as possible to avoid contamination. Contamination can occur from bacteria present on the skin or in the genital area, which may not necessarily indicate an infection of the urinary tract itself. This is why healthcare providers often recommend a "clean catch" method for urine collection, which involves cleaning the genital area before collecting the urine midstream. If the sample is contaminated, it can lead to misleading results, such as the presence of white blood cells or bacteria that do not originate from the urinary tract.

In your case, if you have been experiencing symptoms of urethritis but have not had blood in your urine or significant pain while urinating, it is possible that the test results could reflect contamination rather than an active infection. The presence of white blood cells in the urine can indicate inflammation, but it does not always confirm an infection. Additionally, the absence of nitrites (which are produced by certain bacteria) and the presence of mucus can further complicate the interpretation of your results.

If you suspect that contamination may have affected your test results, it would be advisable to discuss this with your healthcare provider. They may recommend repeating the urine test, ensuring that the sample is collected properly to minimize the risk of contamination. Furthermore, if you continue to experience symptoms, your doctor might consider additional tests or evaluations to rule out other potential causes, such as a sexually transmitted infection or a non-infectious inflammatory condition.

Regarding your concern about the potential impact of repeated urinary tract infections (UTIs) on kidney function, it is important to note that while recurrent UTIs can lead to complications, such as pyelonephritis (a kidney infection), they do not typically cause immediate damage to kidney function unless there are other underlying issues. The estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of 91 you mentioned is still within the normal range for many individuals, although it is on the lower end. Factors such as age, hydration status, and muscle mass can influence eGFR readings. If you have concerns about your kidney function, it would be wise to discuss this with your healthcare provider, who may recommend further testing or monitoring.

In summary, contamination can indeed affect urine test results, and it is essential to ensure proper sample collection to obtain accurate results. If you have ongoing symptoms, it is crucial to communicate with your healthcare provider for further evaluation and management. Additionally, while recurrent UTIs can pose risks, your current kidney function appears to be within an acceptable range, but ongoing monitoring may be beneficial. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare team to address any concerns you may have about your symptoms and test results.