Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS) Practice Exam

What condition is characterized by the absence of urine formation?

1. Anuria

2. Oliguria

3. Polyuria

4. Hematuria

The correct answer is: Anuria

Anuria is the condition characterized by the absence of urine formation, indicating a severe reduction or complete halt in urine output. This can occur due to various underlying problems, such as kidney failure, severe dehydration, or obstruction in the urinary tract. In patients presenting with anuria, medical evaluation is critical as it can reflect significant renal dysfunction or systemic issues. In contrast, oliguria refers to a reduced urine output, often defined as less than 400 milliliters per day, while polyuria signifies excessive urine production, often greater than 2.5 liters per day. Hematuria, on the other hand, is the presence of blood in the urine, which may indicate various conditions such as infections, kidney stones, or trauma, but does not relate to the volume of urine produced. Understanding these distinctions is essential for accurate diagnosis and management in clinical practice.