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 Hematuria is the abnormal presence of blood in the urine and can be a sign of previously undetected problems. When the urine is visibly pink or red, it is “gross hematuria.” When no blood is visible in the urine, but when a significant amount is seen under the microscope, it is “microscopic hematuria.” Blood in the urine may be a warning signal that should not be ignored, and a thorough evaluation is often necessary. The Urology Clinic provides comprehensive and efficient evaluation of this common urologic problem.
Causes
There are many causes of hematuria. Blood cells can enter the urine from anywhere along the urinary tract. Some of the most common causes of significant hematuria are the following:
Evaluation
Every good evaluation begins with a detailed history and physical examination and may include the following:
- Urinalysis
- Urine culture and sensitivity
- Urine cytology
- Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP)
- Complete Blood Count (CBC)
- Cystoscopy
- CT scan
Treatment
The proper treatment for hematuria depends on its cause. A small amount of blood can turn the urine bright red, and hematuria rarely requires a blood transfusion. The urgency of treatment depends on the degree of hematuria and other associated symptoms or voiding problems. In as many as twenty percent of patients with hematuria, no cause can be determined. This is called "idiopathic hematuria." These patients are often followed periodically to ensure no new problems develop.
Summary
Hematuria is the abnormal presence of blood in the urine, and a common reason that patients are seen by a urologist. The condition warrants evaluation because it can be a sign of previously undetected problems. There are several steps in the thorough evaluation of hematuria. At The Urology Clinic, we are often able to conduct this entire process under one roof, maximizing efficiency and minimizing delay.
See our Hematuria Education Brochure for further information.
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