The color of our urine is a kind of “health indicator” that reflects the processes taking place in the body. A change in its shade can be caused by completely harmless reasons, such as dehydration or consumption of certain foods. But in some cases, an unusual urine color can be the first and only signal of serious diseases, including cancer. In this article, we will look at three key urine colors that can indicate oncological diseases of the urinary system, and we will explain why it is vital to immediately consult a doctor when they appear.
I am a urologist-oncologist, Doctor of Medical Sciences, with 20 years of experience. Every day I meet patients who sought help too late because they ignored these alarming signals. The text you are about to read is a detailed guide based on clinical experience and current medical data.
Color #1: Red or pink – blood in the urine (hematuria)
Hematuria is the presence of blood in the urine. This is the most alarming and obvious symptom that should not be underestimated. The red or pink hue can be the result of both a small amount of blood and more serious bleeding.Oncology literatureStaining reagents
Why it’s worrisome: Blood in the urine can be a result of inflammation (cystitis, pyelonephritis), trauma, or kidney stones. But the most dangerous cause is bladder or kidney cancer. The growing tumor damages blood vessels, leading to bleeding.
Features of oncological hematuria:
Painless. Unlike hematuria caused by stones or infections (often accompanied by pain, burning, or discomfort), hematuria in cancer is usually painless – making it an extremely insidious symptom.
Intermittent. The blood may come and go, creating a false sense of improvement. The patient thinks everything is over and does not seek medical attention while the tumor continues to grow.Urine test kitOncology literature
Visible or hidden. The blood can be visible to the naked eye (macrohematuria) or only during laboratory analysis (microhematuria). In both cases, a thorough diagnosis is necessary.Oncology literature
Color #2: Dark brown or black – decomposition products
Dark brown or even black urine is a rare but very serious symptom. The causes can be both harmless and dangerous.
Harmless causes: consumption of legumes, rhubarb, aloe, as well as taking certain medications.
Dangerous reasons:
Melanoma. Malignant melanoma (skin cancer) can metastasize to internal organs, including the kidneys. The products of tumor decay can be excreted in the urine, staining it dark. This is a sign of metastasis and an extremely alarming signal.Staining reagentsUrine test kit
Kidney cancer. Certain tumors can cause muscle tissue to break down, causing myoglobin to be released into the urine, giving it a dark brown color.
Color #3: White or milky – lymph in the urine (chiluria)
White or milky urine is a rare but very important symptom. It suggests the presence of lymph in the urine, a phenomenon known as chyluria. Lymph is a fluid that circulates in the lymphatic system.
Why it’s worrisome: Normally, lymph shouldn’t flow into the urinary system. This can happen if the lymph channels near the kidneys or bladder are compressed or damaged.Oncology literatureUrine test kit
Relationship with oncology:
Kidney cancer. The growing tumor can press on or grow into the lymphatic vessels, which disrupts the drainage of lymph and causes it to leak into the urine.
Lymphoma. Tumors of the lymphatic system can also block lymph channels and cause chylurria. This is a symptom that should not be ignored.
