Understanding Your Urinalysis Results: WBC, RBC, Bacteria & Amorphous Crystals

Question
My recent UR Micro results say I have out-of-range results (UA WBC=0.2; UA RBC=5-10; UA Bacteria=occasional; and UA Amorphous Crystals=moderate.  What does each result mean for my health?

Thanks for your help in interpreting my UR Micro results,

Barbara

Answer
Hi Barbara.  WBCs (white blood cells) in urine could indicate an infection.  RBC (red blood cells) in urine can also indicate an infection, or a kidney problem.  Bacteria in large amounts, of course, could be an infection also.  Amorphous crystals are rarely indicative of a problem.  They are found in normal urines that have been at room temperature for awhile.  The amounts of WBCs, RBCs, and bacteria are small, though, and these things can be found in normal urines.  If you're having any urinary symptoms, though, check with your doctor.  He/she can find or rule out any problems with further tests.

Samantha