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Broad Hyaline Casts, Urine — Microscopy

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

A urine microscopy test that looks for broad hyaline casts, which may form when urine flow is reduced or the kidneys are stressed.

Quick summary

["Broad hyaline casts in urine can be associated with dehydration or reduced kidney function but require other results for interpretation."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
44382-0
Short code
Broad Hyaline Casts UrnS Ql Micro
Synonyms
Broad Hyaline Casts UrnS Ql Micro
Category
liver
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Ref low
10
Ref high
40
Critical range
— – 500 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
microscopy-light
CPT
84484
SNOMED
302774002
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

This test examines a urine sample under a microscope to look for broad hyaline casts. These are cylindrical structures made of a protein called hyaline that form inside the kidney's collecting tubes.

Why might I need this test?

Urine microscopy may be ordered as part of a urinalysis, kidney evaluation, or assessment of symptoms such as swelling, changes in urination, or fatigue. Finding these casts can provide information about urine flow and kidney stress.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and examined under a microscope. The laboratory looks for casts and reports their presence and appearance as part of the urine microscopic analysis.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by your healthcare professional. A clean-catch urine sample is usually requested, and the sample should be analyzed promptly after collection.

Reference range

Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A

Specimen: urine

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Broad hyaline casts may occur when urine moves slowly through the kidneys, such as with dehydration or reduced urine output. They can sometimes be seen with chronic kidney disease, but this finding alone does not diagnose a specific condition and must be interpreted with symptoms and other urine and blood test results.

Short name

Urine Broad Hyaline Casts

Frequently asked questions

What are hyaline casts?
Hyaline casts are small protein structures that form in the kidney's collecting tubes. They are commonly found in urine and may become more noticeable when urine flow is reduced.
Does finding broad hyaline casts mean I have kidney disease?
No. A single urine microscopy result does not establish kidney disease. Your clinician will consider it along with kidney function blood tests, urine measurements, symptoms, and medical history.
Can dehydration affect the result?
Yes. Low fluid intake and reduced urine output can create conditions that favor cast formation, including broad hyaline casts. Hydration and clinical context should be considered when reviewing the result.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy