Urinalysis (Urinalysis with Microscopic Examination for Cellular Components)
A urinalysis is a simple test to check the health of your kidneys, bladder, and urinary tract by analyzing urine. It may also detect conditions like infections, diabetes, or kidney disease.
["Urinalysis helps identify urinary tract or kidney issues early."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 52613-7
- Short code
- BLADDERCARE
- Synonyms
- —
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Not applicable - clinical assessment/documentation, no specimen container required
- Units
- N/A
- Critical range
- 0.5 N/A – —
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–120 years
- Method
- Clinical assessment - observational questionnaire-based evaluation
- CPT
- 86038
- Specimen volume
- Not applicable - no specimen collection required
- Stability
- Not applicable - no specimen stability requirements
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 1–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is Urinalysis Testing For?
Urinalysis typically includes testing for the presence of cells, proteins, glucose, ketones, blood, and other substances in urine. Microscopic examination can reveal red blood cells, white blood cells, bacteria, or crystals, which may indicate infections or other problems.
Common Uses of Urinalysis
Doctors often use urinalysis to monitor kidney function, screen for urinary tract infections (UTIs), detect diabetes, or check for signs of kidney disease or other systemic conditions. It’s also used in routine health checks or during pregnancy.
How Is Urinalysis Performed?
Urine is collected in a clean container and sent to a lab. The sample is tested for chemical properties (e.g., pH, protein, glucose) and then examined under a microscope for cellular or crystalline components.
What Might Urinalysis Detect?
Possible findings include abnormal cell counts (e.g., red or white blood cells), unusual substances (e.g., protein, blood), or crystals that could signal infections, inflammation, or metabolic issues.
Reference range
Assessment score varies by validated tool used; results are reported as categorical (independent, needs assistance, fully dependent) or ordinal scaleN/A
No fasting or special preparation required. Patient or caregiver should be prepared to discuss bladder management routines, equipment used, and level of independence in care
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Urinalysis
Frequently asked questions
Why might my doctor order a urinalysis?
What are the normal results?
How often should I get a urinalysis?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy