Erythrocytes, also known as red blood cells, are the most important blood cells that make up the majority of all blood cells. They are responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to all body tissues and transporting carbon dioxide back to the lungs. Erythrocytes are anucleated and have a red color due to hemoglobin, which is a protein capable of binding to oxygen molecules. They are formed in the bone marrow and live for about 120 days, after which they are destroyed and replaced by new erythrocytes.

What does erythrocytes in urine mean?

The presence of red blood cells in the urine, called hematuria, is not a normal condition. It can be an early signal of various health problems, which can be both harmless and serious.

1. Infections. Bacterial infections, such as cystitis or a urinary tract infection, can cause red blood cells in the urine.

2. Stones. Stones in the urinary tract or kidneys can injure the urinary tract and allow red blood cells to pass into the urine.

3. Trauma. Any injury to the urinary tract or kidneys, such as from an accident, can cause hematuria.

4. Diseases. Some kidney diseases, such as glomerulonephritis or kidney cysts, can also cause the presence of red blood cells in the urine.

5. Medicines. Some medications can cause the presence of erythrocytes in the urine as a side effect.

Hematuria can be macroscopic, when the urine turns red or brown, or microscopic, when the number of erythrocytes is small and can only be seen under a microscope.

The presence of erythrocytes in the urine can be due to various reasons, some of which can be very serious. If you notice that your urine has an unusual color, or if your doctor detects the presence of red blood cells in your urine, it is necessary to closely monitor and look for a possible cause.


Symptoms of the presence of erythrocytes in the urine

The presence of red blood cells in the urine, medically known as hematuria, is a condition characterized by a higher than normal amount of red blood cells in the urine. Hematuria can be macroscopic or microscopic, depending on the concentration of erythrocytes in the urine.

Macroscopic hematuria

Gross hematuria means that the urine contains so many red blood cells that it turns red or brown in color. This is an obvious symptom that is easy to notice without special tests.

Symptoms

  • Urine can be light red, dark red, or even brown, depending on the amount of red blood cells and how long they have been in the urine.
  • Blood clots can sometimes appear in the urine, which can cause discomfort or pain when urinating.

Microscopic hematuria

Microscopic hematuria means that there are red blood cells in the urine, but not enough to change the color of the urine. This condition can only be diagnosed by examining the urine under a microscope.

Symptoms

  • Microscopic hematuria is usually asymptomatic. Patients often don't even know they have the problem until it's discovered during a routine health checkup.
  • Sometimes there may be associated symptoms depending on the cause of the hematuria, such as pain when urinating, frequent urination, or pain in the lower abdomen.

Associated symptoms

Despite the presence of erythrocytes in the urine, there may be other symptoms that may indicate a specific cause of hematuria:

  • Pain while urinating may indicate a urinary tract infection.
  • Pain in the side or back may indicate a kidney stone or other kidney problem.
  • Frequent urination can be a sign of a bladder problem or urinary tract infection.
  • Blood clots in the urine may indicate a more serious cause of hematuria, such as a tumor.

The presence of erythrocytes in the urine can be a serious symptom, so it is important to carefully monitor any changes in urine color or other symptoms related to urination.


Diagnostics and treatment

When the presence of erythrocytes in the urine is suspected, it is important to perform a thorough diagnosis to determine the cause and prescribe the appropriate treatment.

1. General urine test. The first step is a general urinalysis, during which the laboratory checks the color, transparency and composition of the urine. This test determines the concentration of erythrocytes, proteins, nitrites and other substances.

2. Microscopic examination of urine. In this analysis, urine is examined under a microscope to determine the number and shape of red blood cells. This can help determine whether the urine contains only red blood cells or other cells.

3. Urine test. If an infection is suspected, the urine is sent for detailed analysis to determine the bacteria causing the infection and its sensitivity to antibiotics.

4. Video diagnostics. In some cases, imaging techniques such as ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be needed to visually inspect the urinary tract and kidneys.

5. Cystoscopy. This is a procedure in which a thin tube with a camera (cystoscope) is inserted through the urethra into the bladder so that the doctor can directly see the bladder wall and urinary tract.

Treatment

The treatment of the presence of erythrocytes in the urine depends on the identified cause:

1. Infections: If the presence of red blood cells in the urine is caused by a urinary tract infection, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics. Medicines for pain and discomfort may be recommended.

2. Urinary tract stones: If stones are found, treatment with drugs, ultrasound or surgery may be needed to remove them.

3. Treatment of kidney disease: Some kidney diseases, such as glomerulonephritis, may require special medications such as immunosuppressants or other treatment methods.

4. Trauma or injury: If the presence of red blood cells in the urine is caused by trauma, a period of rest or, in rare cases, surgical intervention may be necessary.

5. Other causes: In some cases, other methods of treatment may be necessary, depending on the cause of the presence of red blood cells in the urine.

The presence of erythrocytes in the urine can be a sign of many different health problems, so careful diagnosis and treatment are important. If you notice any symptoms related to urination, especially blood in the urine, see your doctor immediately.

Sources of information:

1. "Urinalysis", Mayo Clinic, 2019.
 2. "Hematuria: Blood in the urine", National Kidney Foundation, 2018.
 3. "Urinary Tract Infections in Adults", Urology Care Foundation, 2016.
 4. "Glomerulonephritis", MedlinePlus, 2020.
 5. "Nephrotic Syndrome in Adults", National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, 2019.


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