Evaluation of hematuria.
Hematuria is an important sign that indicates the presence of a pathologic condition in the genitourinary tract. Causes can be categorized by where in the urinary tract the problem is located--above the kidney, in the kidney or one of its structures, or below the kidney. Another category is false hematuria, such as urine that has been discolored by intake of a certain food or drug. A thorough history, physical examination, and appropriate laboratory studies, followed by more sophisticated diagnostic tests chosen on the basis of the assembled clues, can establish the diagnosis in most cases. Patients rarely have to be hospitalized or undergo invasive procedures for assessment of hematuria.
Finney
J
J
Department of Urology, Touro Infirmary, New Orleans, LA 70115.
Baum
N
N
D005260:Female; D006417:Hematuria / Q000209:etiology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010808:Physical Examination; D011469:Prostatic Diseases / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis; D014570:Urologic Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis