What does specific gravity indicate in a urine sample?

Specific gravity in a urine sample measures the concentration of solutes dissolved in the urine. It is an important diagnostic indicator because it reflects the kidney's ability to concentrate or dilute urine based on the body’s hydration status.

A higher specific gravity indicates that the urine is more concentrated, often due to dehydration or conditions that lead to increased solute levels, such as diabetes mellitus. Conversely, a lower specific gravity can indicate dilute urine, which may occur due to overhydration or conditions such as diabetes insipidus.

While the presence of bacteria, pH levels, and blood cells are valuable aspects of urine analysis, they are assessed through different tests rather than specific gravity. Understanding specific gravity helps healthcare providers interpret kidney function and hydration status, making it a critical component of urine analysis.