Wednesday, June 19, 2013

Table of Contents

Alternative Names

Urine appearance and color; Routine urine test


Normal Values

Normal urine may vary in color from almost colorless to dark yellow. Some foods (like beets and blackberries) may turn the urine a red color.

Usually, glucose, ketones, protein, and bilirubin are not detectable in urine. The following are not normally found in urine:

  • Hemoglobin
  • Nitrites
  • Red blood cells
  • White blood cells

Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results.


What abnormal results mean

For specific results, see the individual test article:

  • Bilirubin - urine
  • Glucose - urine
  • Protein - urine
  • Red blood cells in urine test
  • Urine ketones
  • Urine pH
  • Urine protein
  • Urine specific gravity


Review Date: 02/01/2011
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)