Definition

Hematuria means blood in the urine. Normally, urine does not contain any blood. There are 2 kinds of hematuria:

• Microscopic hematuria—Urine contains a very small amount of blood. It cannot be seen with the naked eye.
• Gross hematuria—Urine appears red or tea-colored.

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Causes

Hematuria can be caused by many conditions, such as:

• Vigorous exercise
• Injury to the abdomen, pelvis, or internal organs of the urinary tract
• Conditions that affect the urinary tract, such as infection, vesicoureteral reflux, blockage or abnormalities, or tumors
• Cancer of the kidney or bladder
• Kidney disease
• Kidney stones
• Bleeding disorders, such as hemophilia
• Certain congenital diseases, such as polycystic kidneys
• Certain medications

Sometimes the exact cause is not found.

Risk Factors

Factors that may increase your child's chance of hematuria include:

• Urinary tract infection
• Recent upper respiratory tract infection
• Family history of kidney problems
• Injury or abuse
• Medications, such as certain antibiotics or pain relievers
• Pelvic radiation therapy for cancer treatment

Symptoms

In some cases, there may be other symptoms with hematuria. These other symptoms will depend on the underlying condition that is causing the hematuria. For example, if a urinary tract infection is the cause, your child may have to urinate often. There may also be a burning feeling during urination.

Call your child's doctor if you see blood in the urine.

Diagnosis

You will be asked about your child’s symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done.

Tests to look for infections and signs of kidney trouble may include:

• Urine tests—to confirm the presence of blood and look for protein, bacteria, or cancer cells in the urine
• Blood tests—to check how well the kidneys are functioning and to look for conditions that cause hematuria

Your child's doctor may also need to look at the kidneys and urinary tract. Imaging tests may include:

• X-ray
• Ultrasound
• CT scan
• MRI scan

Other tests that may be done include:

• Cystoscopy —to look at the lining of the bladder
• Kidney biopsy (done in rare cases)—to remove a small sample of kidney tissue for testing

Treatment

Treatment will depend on the cause. Some causes do not require treatment. Other causes can be treated with medication. For example, a urinary tract infection is treated with antibiotics.

Surgery may be needed if the urinary tract is blocked.

Prevention

By treating the underlying condition, the doctor may be able to prevent your child from developing hematuria.