What does "turbid" mean when looking at a urine sample?

What does "turbid" mean when looking at a urine sample?

• A. It is clear and colorless
• B. It is cloudy and you cannot see through it
• C. It has a strong odor
• D. It contains high levels of protein

Answer: (B)

When examining a urine sample, the term "turbid" describes a condition where the sample appears cloudy or opaque, making it difficult to see through. This cloudiness can result from various substances present in the urine, such as cells, bacteria, crystals, or mucus. A turbid urine sample may indicate possible underlying conditions, such as urinary tract infections or other pathological processes. The other options suggest clarity, odor, or high levels of protein, which do not accurately describe turbidity. A clear and colorless sample would indicate normal findings, while a strong odor does not pertain to the clarity of the sample. Elevated protein levels often lead to specific kinds of changes, but they are not synonymous with the term "turbid." Therefore, the definition of "turbid" aligns specifically with the appearance of the urine sample.

When examining a urine sample, the term "turbid" describes a condition where the sample appears cloudy or opaque, making it difficult to see through. This cloudiness can result from various substances present in the urine, such as cells, bacteria, crystals, or mucus. A turbid urine sample may indicate possible underlying conditions, such as urinary tract infections or other pathological processes.

The other options suggest clarity, odor, or high levels of protein, which do not accurately describe turbidity. A clear and colorless sample would indicate normal findings, while a strong odor does not pertain to the clarity of the sample. Elevated protein levels often lead to specific kinds of changes, but they are not synonymous with the term "turbid." Therefore, the definition of "turbid" aligns specifically with the appearance of the urine sample.