What is oliguria?

Oliguria refers to a condition characterized by decreased urine output, typically defined as producing less than 400 milliliters of urine in a 24-hour period for adults. This can be indicative of various medical conditions, including dehydration, kidney disease, or urinary obstruction, among others. Recognizing oliguria is crucial in clinical assessments as it may signal underlying health issues that require immediate attention.

The other options describe different states of urine output or conditions. Excessive urine output, known as polyuria, is the opposite of oliguria. Normal urine output varies between individuals but generally ranges from 800 to 2000 milliliters per day in healthy adults. A urinary tract infection, while it can affect urine production and characteristics, is a distinct condition often presenting with different symptoms such as urgency, frequency, or burning sensation during urination. Understanding oliguria's definition and implications is essential for timely and appropriate medical care.