Urobilinogen in Urine

Urobilinogen is a colorless compound that is produced during the breakdown of hemoglobin in the body. It is a byproduct of bilirubin reduction and is normally present in small amounts in urine.

What is the purpose of testing for Urobilinogen in urine?

The test for urobilinogen in urine is used to assess liver function, hemolysis (breakdown of red blood cells), and bilirubin metabolism. It can help diagnose conditions such as:

• Liver disease or damage
• Hemolytic anemia
• Biliary obstruction
• Porphyrias (a group of disorders that affect the production of heme)

How is the test performed?

The test for urobilinogen in urine typically involves a dipstick or laboratory analysis of a urine sample. The dipstick method uses a chemical reagent to detect the presence of urobilinogen, while laboratory analysis may involve more complex techniques such as spectroscopy or chromatography.

Interpretation of results

The normal range for urobilinogen in urine is typically less than 1 mg/dL or 1.7 μmol/L. Elevated levels of urobilinogen in urine may indicate:

• Liver dysfunction or damage
• Hemolysis (breakdown of red blood cells)
• Biliary obstruction
• Porphyrias

Decreased levels of urobilinogen in urine may indicate:

• Liver disease or damage that affects bilirubin metabolism
• Biliary obstruction
• Certain medications, such as antibiotics or antacids

Limitations and considerations

The test for urobilinogen in urine has some limitations and considerations, including:

• False positives may occur due to contamination of the urine sample or certain medications
• False negatives may occur due to dilute urine samples or certain medical conditions
• The test is not specific for liver disease or hemolysis and must be interpreted in conjunction with other laboratory results and clinical findings

Reference ranges

Reference ranges for urobilinogen in urine may vary depending on the laboratory and testing method used. Typical reference ranges include:

• Less than 1 mg/dL or 1.7 μmol/L (normal)
• 1-2 mg/dL or 1.7-3.4 μmol/L (mildly elevated)
• Greater than 2 mg/dL or 3.4 μmol/L (elevated)