What is urinalysis?

Urinalysis is the analysis of urine, which is a critical diagnostic tool used to assess various health conditions and abnormalities. This process typically involves a series of tests evaluating the physical, chemical, and microscopic properties of urine. By examining urine samples, healthcare providers can detect the presence of substances such as glucose, protein, or blood, which can indicate conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, or infections. This essential analysis offers insights into a patient’s overall health and can help guide further testing or treatment.

Other options, while related to health assessments, do not accurately define urinalysis. Blood pressure testing focuses specifically on cardiovascular health, screening for diseases may involve various methods beyond urine tests, and measuring kidney function typically requires more specific tests, although urinalysis can provide valuable information regarding kidney status.