Can this result diagnose a condition on its own?

No. Urinalysis findings are interpreted with symptoms, collection conditions, medical history and related tests.

Which reference range should I use?

Use the performing laboratory's own reference interval and reporting method first.

When should I discuss the result with a healthcare professional?

Clearly abnormal, persistent, symptomatic or unexpected findings should be reviewed by a healthcare professional.

Information about a laboratory test

Urinalysis: What Does This Test Mean?

The Urinalysis test assesses the physical, chemical and microscopic features of urine.

Test summary

Test name: Urinalysis
Abbreviations: UA, Urine Analysis
Category: Urinalysis
Panel: Urinalysis
Specimen: Urine
Common units: qualitative, microscopic, chemistry

What does the test measure?

The Urinalysis test assesses the physical, chemical and microscopic features of urine.

Why is the test ordered?

It is used to provide information about general health, urinary tract infection, kidney problems and some metabolic conditions.

Information about a low result

There is no single “low” result for a urinalysis panel; each parameter is interpreted in its own context.

Information about a high result

There is no single “high” result for a urinalysis panel; each parameter is interpreted in its own context.

Reference and clinical context

Start with the performing laboratory's reference interval, method, collection conditions and reporting unit. Urinalysis findings do not establish a diagnosis on their own.

Reference ranges may vary by laboratory, method used, age, sex, pregnancy status, and clinical context. The reference range on your own laboratory report takes precedence.

Interpretation notes

Start with the performing laboratory's reference interval, method, collection conditions and reporting unit. Urinalysis findings do not establish a diagnosis on their own. Interpretation may be more informative when related urine parameters are considered together.

Related specialties

Urology
Nephrology
Internal Medicine
Family Medicine

Frequently asked questions

Sources

Urinalysis — U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus)
Government medical reference · 2025 · Urinalysis components, routine use and qualitative normal findings · Verified: Aug 12, 2026
Diagnosis of Bladder Infection in Adults — National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)
U.S. government clinical reference · 2026 · Urinalysis and urine culture in UTI diagnosis · Verified: Aug 12, 2026