DYSMORPHIC RBC URINE TEST
(Flat ₹101 OFF - Sanovra Lab)
Report Time: Same Day (Cutoff 4:30 PM) | Sample: Fresh Urine | Test Code: HM112
If a routine test detects blood in your urine (Hematuria), the most important question for a doctor is: Where is the bleeding coming from? Is it coming from the kidneys, or from lower down in the urinary tract (like the bladder)?
The Dysmorphic RBC Urine Test uses specialized Phase-Contrast Microscopy to examine the actual shape (morphology) of the red blood cells in your urine. The shape of the cells acts as a direct clue to identify the exact source of the bleeding.
The Journey of a Red Blood Cell
Think of your kidneys as a fine sieve or filter. The shape of the blood cell tells us how it got into your urine:
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✔Dysmorphic (Misshapen) RBCs: If red blood cells have to forcefully squeeze through damaged kidney filters (glomeruli), they get crushed, distorted, and mangled. A high number of these points to Glomerular bleeding (Kidney disease, like Glomerulonephritis).
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✔Isomorphic (Normal) RBCs: If the blood cells look normal and perfectly round, they bypassed the kidney filters completely. They leaked into the urine from further down the plumbing. This points to Non-Glomerular bleeding (caused by Kidney stones, Bladder infections, or Tumors).
Important: The "Fresh Urine" Rule
If urine sits in a container for too long, changes in pH and salt concentration will cause perfectly normal red blood cells to shrink or swell naturally. This will create a False Positive result for Dysmorphic cells, leading to an incorrect kidney diagnosis. Please provide the sample directly at the lab.
Interpreting Your Results
The lab technician counts the blood cells under a special Phase-Contrast microscope and calculates a percentage:
| RBC Morphology | Clinical Interpretation |
|---|---|
| > 80% Dysmorphic RBCs | Strongly indicates Glomerular Disease (e.g., IgA Nephropathy, Lupus Nephritis). The kidneys themselves are inflamed or damaged. |
| > 80% Isomorphic (Normal) RBCs | Indicates Lower Urinary Tract Bleeding (e.g., Kidney stones, UTIs, enlarged prostate, or bladder polyps). |
| Mixed (20% - 80% Dysmorphic) | Inconclusive. Bleeding could be coming from multiple sites, or the urine sample may have been delayed before testing. |
| Presence of Acanthocytes | Acanthocytes are a specific type of dysmorphic cell shaped like Mickey Mouse ears. Finding even ≥5% of these is highly specific for kidney filter damage. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
A standard microscope shines light straight through a slide, making clear cells hard to see. Phase Contrast alters the light path, causing the edges of the transparent red blood cells to "glow." This allows the pathologist to see exact distortions and protrusions on the cell surface.
No, fasting is not required. However, you should drink a normal amount of water. Severely dehydrated (highly concentrated) urine can distort the cells.
It is strongly advised to avoid this test during menstruation. Menstrual blood will introduce thousands of normal (isomorphic) RBCs into the sample, completely masking any dysmorphic kidney cells.
Pinpoint the Source of Bleeding
Get precise microscopic analysis to differentiate between kidney disease and urinary tract issues. Book the Dysmorphic RBC Test at Sanovra Lab.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Laboratory results should always be interpreted by a qualified Urologist or Nephrologist.