What does it mean when there are high levels of red blood cells in the urine?
Disease description:
I had two urine tests, and both showed a high number of red blood cells, with two plus signs for occult blood and a pH of 8. All other indicators were within the normal range. It's quite strange. Doctor, what could cause a high level of red blood cells in urine?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Cao Zhiqiang
An abnormally high number of red blood cells in the urine, commonly referred to as hematuria or microscopic hematuria, may be caused by the following factors:
1. Urinary tract infections: Such as urethritis, cystitis, and pyelonephritis. These inflammatory conditions can cause congestion, edema, and even erosion of the urinary tract mucosa, leading to red blood cells leaking into the urine.
2. Stones: Stones in the urinary tract, such as ureteral stones, may scratch the mucosa while moving, causing bleeding. Additionally, stones can cause urinary tract obstruction, increasing intraluminal pressure and worsening the bleeding.
3. Kidney diseases: Such as glomerulonephritis and nephrotic syndrome. These conditions can impair the filtration function of the glomeruli, resulting in leakage of red blood cells.
4. Tumors: Malignant tumors of the urinary system, such as renal cell carcinoma and bladder cancer, are common causes of hematuria.
5. Vascular diseases: Such as vasculitis and thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, which may affect the blood vessels in the kidneys and lead to bleeding.
6. Medications: Certain drugs, such as anticoagulants and chemotherapy agents, may also cause hematuria.
