Urinalysis interpretation: how to squeeze out the maximum information from a small sample

Clin Tech Small Anim Pract. 2005 Feb;20(1):2-10. doi: 10.1053/j.ctsap.2004.12.002.

Abstract

The urinalysis is an essential part of the diagnostic evaluation for all urinary and many metabolic diseases. Its assessment includes evaluation of physical characteristics (color, clarity, and volume), biochemical parameters (urine pH, blood, glucose, ketones, bilirubin, urobilinogen, and protein) and microscopic sediment evaluation (RBC, WBC, organisms, epithelial cells, crystals, and casts). Many of these parameters are influenced by collection method and therefore, it is essential to interpret accordingly. Knowledge of factors that can interfere with the accuracy of some test results can decrease improper interpretation. When all of these parameters are evaluated in combination with clinical signs, physical examination, thorough history and other laboratory tests, a diagnosis will often be attained.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cat Diseases / diagnosis
  • Cat Diseases / urine*
  • Cats
  • Dog Diseases / diagnosis
  • Dog Diseases / urine*
  • Dogs
  • Female
  • Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
  • Male
  • Proteinuria / diagnosis
  • Proteinuria / veterinary
  • Specific Gravity
  • Specimen Handling / methods
  • Specimen Handling / standards
  • Specimen Handling / veterinary*
  • Uremia / diagnosis
  • Uremia / veterinary
  • Urinalysis / methods
  • Urinalysis / veterinary*
  • Urinary Catheterization / methods
  • Urinary Catheterization / standards
  • Urinary Catheterization / veterinary
  • Urologic Diseases / diagnosis
  • Urologic Diseases / urine
  • Urologic Diseases / veterinary*