Bacteriaurnsqlmicro
A microscopic test that checks for bacteria in urine to help diagnose urinary tract infections (UTIs).
{"The test examines urine sediment under a microscope to detect bacteria","It helps diagnose urinary tract infections (UTIs)","A positive result usually means you need treatment with antibiotics","The test is performed on a urine sample collected in a sterile container","Results are typically available within 1-2 days"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 105052-5
- Short code
- URBCMIC
- Synonyms
- Bacteria UrnS Ql Micro
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile, leak-proof urine container (preferably a sterile screw-cap plastic container or borosilicate glass tube). For culture correlation, a sterile container with preservative or boric acid transport tube may be used.
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 0 years
- Method
- microscopy
- CPT
- 81015
- SNOMED
- 167226004
- Specimen volume
- Minimum 10 mL of urine; optimal volume 30-50 mL for adequate sediment preparation and microscopic examination.
- Stability
- Unpreserved urine should be examined within 1-2 hours of collection at room temperature, or within 4-6 hours if refrigerated at 2-8°C. Bacterial proliferation may occur with delayed processing, leading to false-positive results. For delayed analysis, refrigeration at 2-8°C is acceptable up to 24 hours.
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 1–4 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The Bacteria in Urine Sediment by Microscopy test looks for bacteria in your urine using a microscope. Urine is spun in a machine called a centrifuge to separate the liquid from the solid particles (sediment). The sediment is then examined under a microscope to see if bacteria are present.
How is the sample collected?
You will be given a sterile container to collect a urine sample. It is important to collect a 'clean catch' sample: first, clean your genital area with the provided wipes, then begin urinating into the toilet, and mid-stream, position the container to catch the urine. This helps prevent bacteria from the skin or genital area from getting into the sample.
Why is this test done?
This test is mainly done when you have symptoms of a urinary tract infection, such as pain or burning during urination, frequent urge to urinate, cloudy or strong-smelling urine, or pelvic pain. The test helps confirm whether bacteria are causing your symptoms.
What do the results mean?
A normal result is 'no bacteria seen' or negative, meaning no bacteria were found in your urine sediment. A positive result means bacteria were found, which usually indicates a urinary tract infection. Your healthcare provider will determine if you need treatment based on your symptoms and other test results, such as a urine culture.
Are there any risks?
There are no significant risks associated with this test. The main inconvenience is the need to provide a urine sample. In rare cases, the test may show bacteria even if you have no infection (contamination), which is why your doctor will consider your symptoms along with the results.
Reference range
None seen / Negative: No bacteria observed in urine sediment. Normal urine is generally sterile or contains minimal bacterial contamination from the lower urethra. Small amounts of bacteria may be present in voided specimens due to contamination during collection.N/A
No special preparation required. Midstream clean-catch technique is preferred to minimize external contamination. Patients should be instructed on proper collection technique including cleansing of the genital area, beginning urination to flush the urethra, and collecting the midstream portion. First morning void is preferred for optimal bacterial detection.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to fast before this test?
Can I collect my urine sample at home?
What happens if the test is negative but I still have symptoms?
How long does it take to get results?
Do I need antibiotics if bacteria are found?
Sources
- 1MedlinePlus - Urine TestSource
- 2Mayo Clinic - UrinalysisSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy