Pediatric Urinalysis in Manassas and Haymarket, VA

At PediatriCare, we understand that your child’s health is a priority. That’s why we strive to provide comprehensive care in a comfortable and inviting environment. Schedule an appointment today and let us help you get the answers you need. Call us now at (703) 330-3939 and let us put your mind at ease.

What is a Urinalysis?

A urinalysis is a diagnostic test performed on your child’s urine sample. Not only can a urinalysis provide insights about the child’s overall health, but it can also indicate more specific conditions based off a variety of different factors.

Most often, a urinalysis will be conducted to determine the health of an individual’s kidneys or related bodily systems.

What is Evaluated During a Urinalysis?

There are three main components to a urinalysis, including:

• Dipstick Test
• Visual Test
• Microscopic Exam

The dipstick test utilizes a chemical strip of paper that changes color based on different properties detected in the urine. This test is able to measure several key components of the urine, such as its:

• Acidity
• Protein levels
• Ketones
• Concentration
• Signs of blood in the kidneys
• Bilirubin
• Sugar levels
• Signs of an infection

With the visual test, the lab technician is searching for any immediate warning signs as indicated by discoloration or abnormal odor of the urine.

Finally, the microscopic exam will reveal more about the composition of the urine. This can alert medical professionals to any issues with the white or red blood cell count in a patient’s body, as well as the formation or development of other concerning factors such as bacteria, yeasts, crystals, or casts.

What Should I Expect During a Urinalysis?

A urinalysis is really quite simple. All that is required from the patient is a sample for testing. To best prepare your child for providing a urine sample, patients should follow all instructions given to them by their pediatrician.

When it is time to give the urine sample, your pediatrician or a lab technician from our office will guide your child through the process.

When Will I Receive My Child’s Urinalysis Results?

Test results from a urinalysis are typically available within a few days. It is important to remember that the results may not provide a definitive diagnosis, but will aid in narrowing down the possible conditions that are affecting your child.

Once the results are ready, your pediatrician or an affiliate of PediatriCare of Northern Virginia will deliver the news either by phone or during your next appointment.