Red Blood Cell Urine Concentration (Qualitative) – Urine
This test checks whether your urine contains unusually high levels of red blood cells, which may indicate bleeding or kidney issues.
["Red blood cells in urine can signal underlying health concerns that need attention."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 33051-4
- Short code
- RBC Ur Ql
- Synonyms
- RBC Ur Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 4.2
- Ref high
- 5.9
- Critical range
- 2 N/A – 7 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85041
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003001
- Specimen volume
- 10 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like blood in urine (hematuria), frequent urination, or signs of kidney problems. It could also be part of a general health screening or follow-up for conditions like urinary tract infections or kidney disease.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may be asked to collect a urine sample in a clean container at home or during a visit to a lab. If done in a clinic, a healthcare professional will guide you through the process.
What the Test Results Mean
The test is qualitative, meaning it provides a yes/no or positive/negative result rather than a specific number. Positive results suggest red blood cells are present, which may warrant further evaluation by your doctor.
Common Causes of Positive Results
Positive results can occur due to urinary tract infections, kidney stones, kidney disease, or bleeding disorders. Trauma, certain medications, or even vigorous exercise can also cause temporary red blood cells in urine.
Reference range
Adult males: 4.2-5.9; Females: 3.8-5.1 x 10^12/LN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
While red blood cells in urine alone may not always indicate a serious condition, persistent or unexplained findings should be investigated. Early detection of kidney or urinary issues can lead to better management and treatment options.
Short name
None
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean for my health?
Will I need to change my diet before this test?
Can I take my usual medications before this test?
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