Urinary Haemosiderin

Haematology

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Description

Haemosiderin is a non-crystalline, insoluble, protein/iron complex, which if present in the uro-epithelial cells found in urine, indicates chronic intra-vascular haemolysis; the condition where Haemoglobin (Hb) is released from the RBCs in excess of the binding capacity of haptoglobin. This excess of plasma Hb is then filtered by the kidney and then re-absorbed in the proximal renal tubular cells, where it is broken down to haemosiderin. The uro-epithelial cells of these tubules, containing haemosiderin eventually slough off and are excreted in the urine. Haemosiderinuria is a valuable indication of chronic intra-vascular haemolysis as it will be present even in the absence of haemoglobinuria.

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Indications

If Chronic intra-vascular haemolysis is suspected

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Sample Type

Early morning urine

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Reference Range

Not applicable

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Turnaround Time

Within 5 days

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Testing Frequency

Monday - Friday

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External Notes

Not performed out of hours. Sample should be sent to lab fresh to minimise bacterial growth

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References

Dacie and Lewis Practical Haematology. Dacie J, Lewis S.Bone marrow Pathology, 3rd edition. 2000. Barbara Bain et al

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