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Urinalysis and Body Fluids

Introduction

Urinalysis is the physical, chemical, and microscopic examination of urine. The complete urinalysis is an excellent way to screen for urinary tract infections, liver disease, starvation, diabetes, and problems with kidney function. The sample is very easy to obtain (no needles are involved) and is a very cost-effective test to perform.

Body fluids include a variety of fluids obtained from different areas of the body.

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is obtained from a lumbar puncture to the spine.
Pericardial fluid is obtained from the sack surrounding the heart.
Synovial fluid is obtained from the joint.
Pleural fluid is obtained from the lungs.

These fluids are submitted to the laboratory for analysis to determine if an infection is present. Chemical, microscopic and cultures may be performed to determine what type of infection, if any, is present.

Urinalysis Links

Clinical Significance of Formed Elements in Urine
Urine Sediment Atlas
Online Urinalysis Tutorial
HCG Reference Service
Irving Crowley's Medical Technology Page
Correlation of Urine Color