Urinalysis by means of Test Strips
:: Overview :: Parameters :: :: CHRONOLAB

Consequences of inappropriate urine specimen storage

Until analysis, urine should be protected from direct sunlight, thus avoiding the possibility of erroneous results due to subsequent urine changes. In case of prolonged urine storage beyond the above mentioned time limits, the following changes develop:
• bilirubin - decreased due to sun exposure
• color - changed due to oxidation or metabolite reduction
• bacterial count - increased
• cell and cylinder count - decreased due to disintegration, especially in a diluted or alkaline specimen
• glucose - decreased due to glycolysis and bacterial utilization
• ketones - decreased due to volatilization
• nitrites - increased due to bacterial reduction of nitrates
• pH - increased because of urea decomposition to ammonia due to the bacterial urease activities
• turbidity - increased due to bacterial growth and possible deposition of amorphous salts
• urobilinogen - decreased due to oxidation to urobilin
  First Previous Next Last
    ::   Terms of use   ::   Note     ::  Contact    ::      Print  ::    

Legal Information - The information provided on this web site is for educational purpose only and in no way should it be considered as offering medical advice. The information provided here should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or a disease. It is not a substitute for professional care. Additionally, all laboratory services offered on this web site are for screening purpose only. If you have, or suspect you may have, a health problem, you should consult your physician. We assume no responsibility for how this material is used.