What condition is characterized by blood in the urine?

The condition characterized by blood in the urine is hematuria. This term specifically refers to the presence of red blood cells in urine, which can present as either visible blood (gross hematuria) or detected only under a microscope (microscopic hematuria). Hematuria can indicate various underlying health issues, such as urinary tract infections, kidney stones, or more serious conditions like tumors or kidney disease.

Recognizing hematuria is essential because it serves as a significant clinical sign that warrants further investigation to determine the underlying cause, which can guide appropriate treatment. Understanding the implications of hematuria is crucial for medical administrative assistants since they often play a role in patient communication and the collection of medical information.