Assessment of Dipstick and Urine Sediment Examination Results on Pathological Urine Color

Abstract

Urine is a waste fluid excreted by the kidneys and eliminated from the body through urination. The composition of urine can reflect the kidney's ability to retain and reabsorb substances essential for basic metabolism and maintaining the body’s homeostasis. Abnormalities in urine color, clarity, and turbidity may indicate conditions such as infection, dehydration, hematuria, liver disease, or muscle and erythrocyte damage. This study aimed to assess the results of dipstick and urine sediment examinations in relation to pathological urine color. An analytical study with an experimental approach was conducted at Wira Medika Bali College of Health Sciences Laboratory from April to June 2024. Fifteen pathological urine samples from clinical laboratories in Denpasar were examined, with each tested in duplicate. Samples were examined macroscopically, using dipstick tests, and urine sediment analysis. The examination results were compared with the pathological urine colors. The study found that brown-colored urine showed positive results for erythrocytes and bacteria; red-colored urine showed positive results for erythrocytes, leukocytes, epithelial cells, and bacteria; yellowish-brown urine showed positive results for erythrocytes and leukocytes. It was also found that turbid urine showed positive results for erythrocytes, leukocytes, epithelial cells, and bacteria, while slightly turbid urine showed positive results for erythrocytes and leukocytes. In contrast, clear and transparent urine showed no organic or inorganic components. These findings indicated that urine color and turbidity can reflect the presence of components in the urine, making macroscopic urine examination a useful preliminary indicator in detecting urinary tract disorders or infections.