Urobilinogen in Urine (Dipstick Test)
Urobilinogen is a substance made when your body breaks down bilirubin, a yellow pigment from old red blood cells. Having a small amount in urine is normal. A urine dipstick test measures urobilinogen in broad ranges (Normal, 1+, 2+, 4+, 8+) rather than giving an exact number.
Why it matters
Higher-than-normal urobilinogen levels may point to liver problems (such as hepatitis), bile duct blockages or disease, or increased red blood cell breakdown (hemolysis). Very low or absent levels are less common but can occur with complete bile duct obstruction. Most dipstick reports will simply show “Normal” rather than “Low.”
Understanding your results
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Normal: The expected and healthy finding, representing a small physiologic amount.
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1+ to 8+: Increasing levels that raise concern for potential liver, bile duct, or red blood cell issues. The higher the grade, the more follow-up testing may be needed.
Next steps
If your result is 1+ or higher, your clinician may:
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Order blood tests (bilirubin, AST, ALT, ALP, GGT) to assess liver and bile duct function
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Check a complete blood count (CBC) for evidence of red cell breakdown
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Recommend imaging if liver or biliary disease is suspected
Be sure to mention any related symptoms, such as jaundice (yellowing skin or eyes), dark urine, pale stools, abdominal pain, fever, or fatigue. Some medications and even sample handling can affect results, so repeat testing may be suggested.
Preparation tips
For the most accurate result:
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Provide a clean-catch urine sample
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Use a first-morning sample when possible
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Avoid testing during high fever or right after taking medications that can discolor urine
Urobilinogen, Urine (Dipstick, Semi-quantitative)
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