What is the normal amount of erythrocytes found in urine per high-power field (hpf)?

The normal amount of erythrocytes, or red blood cells, found in urine per high-power field (hpf) is generally considered to be 0-1/hpf in a healthy individual. This means that in a well-prepared urine sample examined under high magnification, it's common to see either none or very few erythrocytes.

When considering the context of urine analysis, any significant presence of erythrocytes can indicate underlying health issues. For instance, an increase in erythrocyte count in urine may suggest conditions like urinary tract infections, kidney stones, or other renal pathologies. Therefore, understanding the normal range is crucial for veterinarians and veterinary technicians in diagnosing potential health issues in animals based on urinalysis results.

The range of 2-3/hpf or more would likely suggest potential pathology and warrant further investigation. Therefore, the correct interpretation of the normal range emphasizes the importance of maintaining low erythrocyte counts in urine, independent of varying factors like hydration or underlying health conditions.