Oh SHIT! Hematuria!

Remember the acronym S.H.I.T. when you are trying to determine the etiology of hematuria:

S: Stone. Nephrolithiasis and stones in the urinary tract will cause hematuria.

H: Hematological and oncological. Bleeding disorders and certain cancers can cause hematuria.

I: Infection. This is the most common etiology. Urinary tract infections will often cause hematuria.

T: Trauma. Certain abdominal traumas and vigorous exercise can cause hematuria.

So the next time you see blood on your patients urinalysis but are unsure of what could be causing it, remember S.H.I.T.!