Microhematuria

Microhematuria is a medical condition characterized by the presence of small amounts of blood in the urine. It is often an incidental finding during routine urinalysis and can be a sign of various underlying conditions, including urinary tract infections, kidney stones, and bladder cancer.

Definition

Microhematuria is defined as the presence of three or more red blood cells per high-power field in a urine sample examined under a microscope. It is different from gross hematuria, where the blood in the urine is visible to the naked eye.

Causes

Microhematuria can be caused by a variety of conditions, including:

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Kidney stones
• Bladder stones
• Kidney disease
• Bladder cancer
• Kidney cancer
• Certain medications, such as aspirin, penicillin, and heparin
• Strenuous exercise

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of microhematuria is typically made through a urinalysis. If microhematuria is detected, further tests may be performed to determine the underlying cause. These tests may include a cystoscopy, ultrasound, or computed tomography (CT) scan.

Treatment

The treatment for microhematuria depends on the underlying cause. For example, if a UTI is the cause, antibiotics will be prescribed. If kidney stones are the cause, treatment may involve medication, dietary changes, or in some cases, surgery.

See also

• Hematuria
• Urinary tract infections
• Kidney stones
• Bladder cancer