Urine Test Results: What Does ob+ Mean? - Internal Medicine

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Regarding small questions about health check-ups?


Recently, I had a general health check-up, and in the report, the urine section showed ob+.
What does this mean?

yun, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/07/28

Dr. Wang Fangli reply Internal Medicine


Hello, Miss Cloud: OB refers to occult blood, which means there is blood in the urine that is not visible to the naked eye.
The presence of occult blood may indicate kidney issues, urinary tract infections, or stones, or it could be due to your menstrual period not being completely finished during the examination.
Please return to a major hospital for further testing.

Reply Date: 2002/07/28

More Info


The term "ob+" in a urine test typically refers to the presence of occult blood in the urine. Occult blood means that there is blood in the urine that is not visible to the naked eye but can be detected through chemical testing. This finding can be significant and may indicate various underlying conditions that require further investigation.

The presence of occult blood in urine can be due to several reasons, including:
1. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Infections in the urinary tract can cause inflammation and irritation, leading to bleeding.

2. Kidney Stones: Stones can cause damage to the urinary tract lining, resulting in bleeding.

3. Glomerulonephritis: This is an inflammation of the kidney's filtering units (glomeruli) and can lead to blood in the urine.

4. Trauma: Any injury to the kidneys or urinary tract can result in bleeding.

5. Tumors: Both benign and malignant tumors in the urinary tract can cause bleeding.

6. Menstruation: In females, if the urine sample is collected during menstruation, it may lead to a false positive for occult blood.

Given the potential implications of an "ob+" result, it is essential to follow up with a healthcare provider for further evaluation. The doctor may recommend additional tests, such as a urine culture, imaging studies (like an ultrasound or CT scan), or even a cystoscopy, to determine the cause of the bleeding.

In terms of management, the approach will depend on the underlying cause identified. For instance, if a urinary tract infection is diagnosed, antibiotics may be prescribed. If kidney stones are present, treatment options may include pain management, hydration, and possibly procedures to remove the stones.

In summary, an "ob+" result in a urine test indicates the presence of occult blood, which can be a sign of various medical conditions. It is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional to interpret this result in the context of your overall health and any symptoms you may be experiencing. Early diagnosis and treatment can help address any underlying issues effectively.

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