Differential Diagnosis for Dark Urine
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Dehydration: This is the most common cause of dark urine, as the body concentrates the urine to conserve water, resulting in a darker color.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Liver Disease (e.g., hepatitis, cirrhosis): Liver dysfunction can lead to an increase in bilirubin, which can cause urine to appear darker.
- Kidney Disease (e.g., kidney stones, urinary tract infection): Certain kidney issues can cause a concentration of waste products, leading to darker urine.
- Medications (e.g., certain antibiotics, laxatives): Some medications can alter urine color, making it appear darker.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Rhabdomyolysis: A serious condition where muscle breakdown leads to the release of myoglobin into the urine, causing it to appear dark or tea-colored. If missed, it can lead to severe kidney damage.
- Hemolytic Anemia: A condition where red blood cells are broken down, releasing bilirubin and causing urine to appear darker. If left untreated, it can lead to severe anemia and other complications.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Alkaptonuria: A rare genetic disorder that affects the breakdown of certain amino acids, leading to the accumulation of homogentisic acid and causing urine to turn dark or black upon standing.
- Melanuria: A rare condition where melanin is present in the urine, giving it a dark or black color. This can be a sign of a serious underlying condition, such as melanoma.