Haematuria
From Kidney Cancer Resource
Contents |
Overview
- also spelt: Hematuria
Haematuria is the presence of blood in the urine.
This can be a sign of many diseases of the the Urinary Tract and kidneys, ranging from minor to fatal but NEVER ignore the symptom.
Taking note of a single instance of Frank Haematuria and resolute determination to establish the cause can and has saved many lives.
Microscopic Haematuria (Invisible)
This is when the trace elements of blood in the Urine are insufficient to be visible but can be identified by Urinanalysis or by light microscopy
Macroscopic Haematuria (Visible)
also called Frank or Gross Hamaturia
This is when blood is visible in the Urine discolouring the Urine
- either:
- rust to dull brown - which is most usually dead or stale blood, where clots may be a warm dark brown.
- light red tint to strong blood red - which is fresh or recent blood in varied percentage.
If You Have Haematuria
As a patient you will be asked various questions:
- Are you aware of having passed any blood clots?
- Are you aware of having a kidney stone been passed?
- Is the red colour mixed in giving a single colour, or is the colour varied during an instance of urination?
- Did or does it only happen when you get up?
- Have you recently received a blow or indulged in violent activity or sport?
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is often made on the basis of medical history and blood tests — particularly amongst young people where a risk of malignancy is small and symptoms are normally self curing.
Ultrasound investigation of the Urinary Tract may be used to identify between various sources of the blood.
X-Ray may be used to identify a Kidney Stone, however a CT scan is likely to be more reliable.
Cystoscopy may be used with older patients, here a Cystoscope is introduced through the Urithra into the Bladder with a sample of any suspicious tissue or Lesion being taken for Biopsy to check for any signs of Bladder Cancer
Other Causes of Haematuria
There are numerous other potential causes of Haematuria but as a Symptom it should never be overlooked or down played - Early diagnosis saves lives, if YOU experience Haematuria DO NOT ignore it or make light of Haematuria it MAY save your life.
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