What does hematuria indicate?

Hematuria refers to the presence of blood in the urine, and specifically indicates the presence of intact red blood cells (RBCs) in the urine. This condition can arise from various sources, such as urinary tract infections, kidney stones, or other underlying medical conditions affecting the kidneys or urinary system. The presence of intact RBCs is what distinguishes hematuria from other processes that might involve blood components, such as hemoglobinuria, where free hemoglobin is present in the urine but the actual cells themselves are not. This distinction is crucial in diagnosing the underlying cause of hematuria, making the identification of intact RBCs a central aspect of interpreting urine tests and understanding potential health issues in patients.