Microscopic Hematuria

Microscopic hematuria is a medical condition characterized by the presence of blood in the urine that can only be seen under a microscope. It is also known as microscopic hematuria or asymptomatic microscopic hematuria.

Causes

There are several possible causes of microscopic hematuria, including:

• Infections of the urinary tract, such as cystitis or pyelonephritis
• Kidney stones or nephrolithiasis
• Glomerulonephritis, a type of kidney inflammation
• Tumors of the kidney or bladder, such as renal cell carcinoma or bladder cancer
• Prostate disorders, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or prostate cancer
• Vigorous exercise or physical activity
• Certain medications, such as aspirin or ibuprofen

Symptoms

Microscopic hematuria often does not cause any noticeable symptoms. However, in some cases, people may experience:

• Painful urination (dysuria)
• Frequent or urgent need to urinate
• Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
• Abdominal pain or flank pain

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of microscopic hematuria is typically made by:

• Urinalysis, which involves examining a sample of urine under a microscope for the presence of blood cells
• Urine dipstick test, which can detect the presence of blood in the urine
• Imaging tests, such as ultrasound or CT scans, to rule out underlying kidney or bladder problems
• Cystoscopy, a procedure that involves inserting a flexible tube with a camera into the bladder to visualize the inside of the bladder and urethra

Treatment

The treatment for microscopic hematuria depends on the underlying cause. In some cases, no treatment may be necessary if the condition is asymptomatic and there are no underlying kidney or bladder problems. However, in other cases, treatment may involve:

• Antibiotics to treat urinary tract infections
• Pain relief medications to manage symptoms such as dysuria or flank pain
• Surgery to remove kidney stones or tumors
• Medications to manage underlying conditions, such as glomerulonephritis or prostate disorders

Prognosis

The prognosis for microscopic hematuria depends on the underlying cause and the effectiveness of treatment. In general, people with asymptomatic microscopic hematuria have a good prognosis, while those with underlying kidney or bladder problems may require ongoing monitoring and treatment to manage their condition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is microscopic hematuria?
Presence of blood in urine visible only under microscope.

What are the common causes of microscopic hematuria?
Infections, kidney stones, and bladder or kidney damage.

Is microscopic hematuria always a sign of a serious condition?
No, it can be caused by minor issues.

How is microscopic hematuria diagnosed?
Urine test to detect blood cells under microscope.

What are the symptoms of microscopic hematuria?
Often none, but may include pain or discomfort while urinating.

Can microscopic hematuria be a sign of cancer?
Yes, in some cases it can be associated with bladder or kidney cancer.

How is microscopic hematuria treated?
Treatment depends on underlying cause.

Can microscopic hematuria resolve on its own?
Yes, in some cases it may resolve without treatment.

Should I see a doctor if I have microscopic hematuria?
Yes, to determine the underlying cause.

Can children have microscopic hematuria?
Yes, it can occur in people of all ages.