urinalysis /yo͝or′inal″isis/ [Gk, ouron + analysein, to loosen] , a physical, microscopic, or chemical examination of urine. The specimen is physically examined for color, turbidity, and specific gravity. Then it is spun in a centrifuge to allow collection of a small amount of sediment, which is examined microscopically for blood cells, casts, crystals, pus, and bacteria. Chemical analysis may be performed to measure the pH and to identify and measure the levels of ketones, sugar, protein, blood components, and many other substances.
