Urinalysis / Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Test by Quest Diagnostics

Urine test checking for urinary tract infection (UTI) indicators.

Additional Information

This urinalysis identifies abnormalities in urine's appearance, content, and concentration. It involves visual, chemical (dipstick), and microscopic examination to detect infection signs. Urinalysis aids in effective treatment, symptom relief, and complication prevention, though a negative result doesn't rule out a UTI. Purchase online; no doctor's visit needed; visit a Quest® location for sample collection.

Biomarkers Tested (17)

Appearance and color

The color and appearance of a normal urine sample should be clear and straw yellow. The presence of white blood cells, red blood cells, crystals, or bacteria may result in discoloration. Cloudy or milky urine suggests a urinary tract infection, which may also have an unpleasant odor.

Specific gravity

This test compares the density of urine to the density of water. Specific gravity measures the concentration of particles in the urine and hydration status. Elevated levels of glucose, proteins, and red or white blood cells in the urine may indicate a high specific gravity.

Alkaline phosphatase (U/L)

Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme found in many tissues, with high concentrations in the liver, bile ducts, and bone. Elevated levels may indicate liver disease or bone disorders.

Glucose (mg/dL)

Glucose is a type of sugar that provides energy for the body's cells. High levels can indicate diabetes or other endocrine disorders.

Bilirubin (mg/dL)

Bilirubin is a substance produced during the normal breakdown of red blood cells. High levels can lead to jaundice and indicate liver or bile duct problems.

Ketones (mg/dL)

Your body uses glucose for energy, and if your cells do not receive enough glucose, your body will burn fat instead. This process results in the formation of ketones. Elevated ketone levels in the urine may indicate diabetic ketoacidosis, a complication of diabetes. Infections can increase the risk of ketoacidosis in patients with diabetes. Ketones may also be detected in the urine of those following a ketogenic diet.

Red Blood Cell Count (/µL)

Responsible for carrying oxygen around the body. A high count can increase the risk of heart attack or stroke, whilst a low count can mean your body isn’t getting the oxygen it needs.

hs-CRP (High-sensitivity C-Reactive Protein) (mg/L)

hs-CRP measures inflammation and is a marker for cardiovascular risk. Elevated levels indicate systemic inflammation.

Nitrite

Nitrates and nitrites are both nitrogen compounds. When bacteria enter the urinary tract, they can convert nitrates to nitrites. Nitrates are found in regular urine; however, nitrites in urine may indicate a urinary tract infection.

Leukocytes (cells/µL)

Leukocytes (WBCs) are white blood cells that are part of the immune system. High levels can indicate infection, inflammation, or other immune responses.

White blood cells

Presence may indicate infection, inflammation, or hemorrhage.

Red blood cells

Presence may indicate infection, inflammation, or hemorrhage.

Urine Epithelial Cells (cells/mL)

A few epithelial cells may be considered normal, as they can be shed during the natural process of cell turnover and sloughing off of the urinary tract lining. However, an excess or abnormal type of epithelial cells in the urine may indicate an underlying condition or issue.

Bacterial vaginosis (BV)

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common vaginal infection caused by an imbalance of bacteria in the vaginal microbiota. Symptoms include foul-smelling discharge, itching, burning, and discomfort during sex.

AST (U/L)

Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) is an enzyme created mainly by the liver and the heart. High levels can indicate damage to your liver caused by alcohol, drugs or hepatitis.

Crystals

Crystals found in the urinary sediment during microscopic examination indicate kidney stone formation is imminent, if not already present. Crystals do not produce symptoms on their own, only when they crystallize into stones. The crystal type detected varies with the associated health condition and the pH of the urine. When the specific gravity of the urine is high, small amounts of crystalline particles may be visible.

AST (U/L)

Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) is an enzyme created mainly by the liver and the heart. High levels can indicate damage to your liver caused by alcohol, drugs or hepatitis.

Urinalysis / Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Test

Additional Information

Biomarkers Tested (17)

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