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Normal Values
Normal urine may vary in color from almost colorless to dark yellow. Some foods (like beets and blackberries) may turn the urine a red color.
Usually, glucose, ketones, protein, bilirubin, are not detectable in urine. The following are not normally found in urine:
- Hemoglobin
- Nitrites
- Red blood cells
- White blood cells
Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results.
What abnormal results mean
For specific results, see the individual test article:
- Bilirubin - urine
- Glucose - urine
- Protein - urine
- Red blood cells in urine test
- Urine ketones
- Urine pH
- Urine protein
- Urine specific gravity
What the risks are
There are no risks.
Special considerations
If a home test is used, the person reading the results must be able to distinguish between different colors, since the results are interpreted using a color chart.
References
McPherson RA, Ben-Ezra J, Zhao S. Basic Examination of Urine. In: McPherson RA, Pincus MR. McPherson & Pincus: Henry's Clinical Diagnosis and Management by Laboratory Methods. 21st ed. Philadelphia, Pa: W.B. Saunders Company; 2006:chap 27.
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Reviewer Info: Linda Vorvick, MD, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.; ADAM Health Illustrated Encyclopedia, 03/14/2009 |
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