What is the primary purpose of a urinalysis?

The primary purpose of a urinalysis is to assess physical, chemical, and microscopic properties of urine. This comprehensive evaluation provides valuable insights into an individual's overall health and can help detect various medical conditions. The physical examination includes aspects such as urine color, clarity, and odor. The chemical analysis measures substances like pH, glucose, protein, and ketones, which can indicate metabolic or systemic disorders. Lastly, the microscopic examination focuses on identifying cells, crystals, bacteria, and casts that may be present in the urine, offering further clues about urinary tract health or kidney function. All these components work together to create a holistic view of an individual’s health status, making this the most foundational reason for conducting a urinalysis.