haemochromogenuria

Last reviewed 01/2018

Haemochromogenuria describes the abnormal presence of haem- moiety pigment from erythrocytes or muscle in the urine. There are two main types:

  • haemoglobinuria is the presence of haemoglobin or its derivatives in the urine
  • myoglobinuria is the presence of myoglobin or its derivatives in the urine

The causes of haemoglobinuria or myoglobinuria are discussed in the submenu.

Haemochromogenuria tends to colour the urine a cloudy red. It can be associated with renal dysfunction or failure as the proximal kidney tubule is blocked by excess pigment.