Urochrome

Urochrome is the pigment that gives urine its characteristic yellow or amber color. It is formed as a result of the breakdown of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen.

When red blood cells age, they are destroyed in the spleen, liver and bone marrow. This releases hemoglobin, which then breaks down into the globin part and the chromophore part - heme. It is heme that is the urochrome that gives urine its characteristic color.

The normal color of urine is due to the concentration of urochrome. If the concentration is too high, the urine becomes dark yellow or even brownish. This may indicate dehydration or problems with the liver and gallbladder. On the other hand, if the urine is light and clear, it may indicate increased fluid intake or kidney disease.

Thus, by analyzing the color of urine and the concentration of urochrome in it, doctors can diagnose various disorders in the body. Urochrome is an important biological pigment that allows us to assess the condition of the kidneys, liver and metabolism.