What type of abnormal cells might indicate a concern in urine analysis?

Renal tubular epithelial cells in urine analysis can indicate a concern because they are typically not found in significant numbers in normal urine. The presence of these cells suggests possible renal tubular injury or dysfunction, which can be a sign of conditions such as acute tubular necrosis, interstitial nephritis, or other renal pathologies.

In contrast, normal squamous epithelial cells are generally considered benign and arise from the lower urinary tract. They are common contaminants in urine samples and do not signify pathological processes. Hypertrophied squamous cells, while potentially indicative of local irritation or chronic inflammation, do not carry the same level of concern as renal tubular epithelial cells, which point directly to kidney-related issues. Thus, the presence of renal tubular epithelial cells is the primary indicator of an underlying pathological process in the context of a urine analysis.