Related tests: albuminuria, proteinuria, urine culture, urine cytology
Clinical significance
Although its role in laboratory diagnostics has been reduced over time by diagnostic innovations, the chemical, physical and microscopic examination of urine remains a valuable screening test (because it is non-invasive and inexpensive) for some important diseases of the urinary system.
Of particular importance are the presence of protein (to be investigated further by measuring urinary albumin), blood (to be investigated further with urine cytology) and white blood cells (which, especially when combined with blood, should be investigated further with a urine culture).
Clinical indications
Screening for kidney function, urinary infections and tumours of the urinary tract.
Sample type
urine
Preparation
On waking, discard the first urine of the morning; collect a sample of the next urine in a standard container and take it to the laboratory within 2 hours.