What do green spots on the blood test pad mean on a urine test strip?

Green spots on the blood test pad of a urine test strip are indicative of the presence of intact red blood cells (RBCs) in the urine. This reaction occurs because intact RBCs in the urine interact with the chemical reagents on the test pad, leading to a color change. Specifically, these RBCs break down and react with the pad's reagents, resulting in green spots that appear against a yellow or orange background on the test strip.

The intensity and number of green spots are generally proportional to the concentration of RBCs in the urine sample. More spots or darker green coloration typically suggest a higher concentration of RBCs, which could indicate bleeding within the urinary tract. This could be a sign of various underlying conditions, such as urinary tract infections, kidney stones, or more serious issues like kidney disease or trauma.

If you notice green spots on the blood test pad, it is crucial to seek medical advice promptly. A physician can conduct further diagnostic tests to determine the cause of the bleeding and recommend appropriate treatment or management based on the findings. The presence of RBCs in the urine warrants professional evaluation to ensure that any potential health issues are identified and addressed effectively.

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Additional Recommendations:

• Repeat the Test - It's a good idea to repeat the test to ensure consistent results.
• Use Sterile Containers - To avoid contamination, use sterile containers for specimen collection, as non-sterile containers can interact with the test chemicals and produce inaccurate results.
• Timing - Make sure to read the results 60 seconds after wetting the strip to ensure accuracy.

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Source: Lillian Mundt, ""Graff’s Textbook of Urinalysis and Body Fluids, 3rd Edition"" (2016, Wolters Kluwer).