Screening for asymptomatic bacteriuria, hematuria and proteinuria. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force

Abstract

Periodic testing for asymptomatic bacteriuria is recommended for persons with diabetes and for pregnant women, and it may also be clinically prudent in preschool children. In general, dipsticks combining the leukocyte esterase and nitrite tests should be used to detect asymptomatic bacteriuria. However, urine culture is a more accurate screening test than is dipstick urinalysis, and it is recommended for detecting asymptomatic bacteriuria during pregnancy. Dipstick urinalysis for asymptomatic bacteriuria, hematuria and proteinuria may also be clinically prudent in persons over age 60.