Urine Definition

Urine

A watery fluid which is yellow in colour and is produced by the kidneys  . It is a waste product formed as a result of various chemical reactions in the body. It consists of nitrogenous waste dissolved in water. Urine can be analysed chemically to aid the early diagnosis of disease. Urine contains water, urea, salt, nitrogen compounds such as uric acid and creatinine, hormones and minerals. Drugs or medicine may appear in urine (e.g. steroids). It can be tested to check for abnormalities or specific conditions, which include:

•    Sugar – if there is too much sugar in the blood it could indicate diabetes
•    Slbumin/protein – when the breakdown of protein or the kidneys may be affected by some disorder or disease
•    Pregnancy.
The urinary system is shown in the diagram overleaf.