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Urine Analysis - Pathology (view source)
Revision as of 19:07, 17 September 2010
, 19:07, 17 September 2010→Gross Appearance
==Gross Appearance==
==Gross Appearance==
===Colour===
In the majority of the domestic species the urine should be yellow in colour. The colour of the urine is very dependant on the specific gravity so it is important to account for this. If the urine is more concentrated it will be darker in colour and visa versa as a general rule . Equine urine can become brown if left standing. Discoloured urine should be taken into consideration when carrying out tests which involve a colour change such as dipsticks. The abnormal urine colour could affect the result.
===Turbidity===
If the urine is not clear then this could indicate a variety of pathological states. In the horse it is normal for it to be turbid due the mucous secreted in the renal pelvis and proximal ureters.
===Odour===
It is normal for urine to have a slight odour from the ammonia. The odour increases with concentration and in some species such as the cat a pungent urine is normal. However a strong smelling urine could indicate a pathological state such as an active bacterial infection.
==Specific Gravity==
==Specific Gravity==
Urine specific gravity (USG) is measured using a refractometer calibrated for veterinary use. It must additionally be calibrated on each use using water which must match the water line on the refractometer read out prior to measuring USG, as reftractometer measurement is sensative to room temperature. Adjustments are made using the screw on the top of the refratcometer - take care not to get this screw wet when cleaning the reftractometer.
Urine specific gravity (USG) is measured using a refractometer calibrated for veterinary use. It must additionally be calibrated on each use using water which must match the water line on the refractometer read out prior to measuring USG, as reftractometer measurement is sensative to room temperature. Adjustments are made using the screw on the top of the refratcometer - take care not to get this screw wet when cleaning the reftractometer.