On a urine test, BLO stands for red blood cells, and its presence in the urine, known as hematuria, can indicate various underlying health conditions.
A urine test, also called a urinalysis, is a common diagnostic tool that provides insights into your overall health, particularly kidney and urinary tract function. When "BLO" appears on your report, it specifically refers to the detection of red blood cells.
Understanding BLO Results
Interpreting your BLO result is crucial for understanding your health status.
Negative BLO Result
- Meaning: A "negative" BLO result indicates that no significant amount of red blood cells was found in your urine sample.
- Implication: This is generally considered a normal finding, suggesting that your urinary system is functioning as expected and there's no evident bleeding in the urinary tract.
Positive BLO Result
- Meaning: A "positive" BLO result signifies the presence of red blood cells in your urine. The amount might be reported as a trace, small, moderate, or large, or as a specific number of cells per high power field (HPF).
- Implication: The detection of red blood cells in urine is an important finding that warrants further investigation, as it suggests a potential issue within the kidneys or urinary tract.
Here's a quick summary:
| BLO Result | Interpretation | Common Implication |
|---|---|---|
| Negative | No red blood cells detected | Normal, no bleeding |
| Positive | Red blood cells are present | Potential underlying issue |
Why Are Red Blood Cells in Urine?
The presence of red blood cells in urine, or hematuria, is not always visible to the naked eye (microscopic hematuria) and can be a symptom of various conditions. When red blood cells are present in the urine sample, it suggests the patient might be at risk for:
- Kidney Disease: Conditions affecting the kidneys, such as glomerulonephritis, kidney stones, or kidney injury, can cause blood to leak into the urine.
- Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): Infections in any part of the urinary system (kidneys, bladder, ureters, or urethra) can cause inflammation and bleeding.
- Bladder or Urethral Issues: This could include bladder stones, inflammation (cystitis), or, less commonly, tumors.
- Prostate Problems (in men): An enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia) or prostate infection can lead to blood in the urine.
- Strenuous Exercise: Intense physical activity can sometimes cause temporary microscopic hematuria.
- Medications: Certain drugs, such as blood thinners (anticoagulants), can increase the risk of bleeding.
- Trauma: Injury to the kidneys or urinary tract can cause blood to appear in the urine.
What to Do If Your BLO Result is Positive
If your urine test shows a positive BLO result, it's crucial not to panic, but to follow up with your healthcare provider. They will likely recommend further tests to determine the cause of the hematuria. These may include:
- Repeat Urinalysis: To confirm the initial finding.
- Blood Tests: To check kidney function or for signs of infection.
- Urine Culture: To identify if a bacterial infection is present.
- Imaging Tests: Such as an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI of the kidneys and bladder to visualize the urinary tract.
- Cystoscopy: A procedure where a thin, lighted tube is inserted into the urethra to examine the bladder and urethra directly.
Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for managing any underlying conditions causing red blood cells in your urine.
