Red blood cells in urine
Erythrocytes in the urine (red blood cells) mean blood in the urine — visible or only microscopic. There are many causes, from harmless ones to those that need work-up.
| Rating | Range | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Good | below 10 /µL | Within range. |
| Worth improving | 10 – 100 /µL | Above the upper reference limit (about 10/µL). In women of reproductive age often menstrual contamination; repeat outside the cycle. |
| Talk to a doctor | 100 /µL and above | Markedly raised red cells in urine. Needs further work-up (NICE: 1+ or more on the strip). |
Why it matters
ECLM: presence requires clarification (infection/stones/kidneys).
If it’s low
The absence of erythrocytes is normal.
If it’s high
Erythrocytes in the urine indicate bleeding somewhere in the urinary tract. Common causes are infection, stones or (in women) menstrual contamination; persistent blood needs work-up.
What to do
Rule out transient causes (menstruation, exercise) and repeat. Persistent blood in the urine (especially without infection) → consultation for further work-up.
Read together with
White blood cells in urine · Nitrites in urine · Protein in urine
This content is for information only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Talk to your doctor about your results.
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