Health condition · plain-language reference

Urinalysis

Also called: UA, Urine Analysis, Urine Test

A urinalysis is a test of your urine . It is often done to check for a urinary tract infection , kidney problems , or diabetes . You may also have one during a checkup, if you are admitted to the hospital, before you have surgery, or if you are pregnant. It can also monitor some medical conditions and treatments. A urinalysis involves checking the urine for: Its color Its appearance (whether it is clear or cloudy) Any odor The pH level (acidity) Whether there are substances that are not normally in urine, such as blood, too much protein, glucose, ketones, and bilirubin Whether there are cells, crystals, and casts (tube-shaped proteins) Whether it contains bacteria or other germs

Plain-language summary from MedlinePlus (NIH/NLM) ↗. For informational purposes only — not medical advice.