Urinalysis Basics: Protein, Blood, Nitrite/Leukocyte Esterase, Specific Gravity, and Microscopy

A urinalysis (UA) adds context to kidney and urinary symptoms. People search: "protein in urine", "trace blood in urine", "nitrite positive". Technique matters: use a clean-catch midstream sample to avoid contamination.

Dipstick highlights

• Protein: confirm with albumin/creatinine ratio (ACR) for chronic detection and staging.
• Blood: can detect hemoglobin/myoglobin; confirm red cells on microscopy.
• Nitrite/LE: suggest gram-negative bacteriuria; interpret with symptoms before treating.
• Specific gravity: hydration and concentrating ability.
• Glucose/ketones: think diabetes control or fasting/ketogenic states.

Microscopy pearls

• RBC morphology and casts can point toward glomerular disease.
• WBCs and bacteria support infection; epithelial cells suggest contamination.

Educational next steps

1. For chronic proteinuria or hematuria, discuss kidney evaluation, blood pressure control, and repeat testing.
2. For UTI symptoms, cultures guide therapy; avoid antibiotics for asymptomatic bacteriuria except in specific scenarios.

Educational use only. Not medical advice.