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Urine Casts, Microscopic Examination (Semi-Quantitative)

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

A urine microscopy test that detects and identifies casts, which can provide information about kidney function, hydration, or urinary tract inflammation.

Quick summary

["Urine casts can help identify dehydration, kidney injury, or urinary tract inflammation, but results must be interpreted with other findings."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
24124-0
Short code
Casts UrnS Ql Micro
Synonyms
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 detect casts. Casts are small structures formed in the kidney's filtering tubules and then released into the urine.

Why might I need this test?

Urine cast testing may be included in a urinalysis to evaluate dehydration, kidney filtering problems, or inflammation in the kidneys or urinary tract. It may also be used to monitor an existing kidney condition.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected in a laboratory container and examined by microscopy. The laboratory reports whether casts are present and may describe their type and relative quantity.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by your healthcare professional or laboratory. Fresh urine is often requested, and a clean-catch midstream sample may be required to reduce contamination.

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.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine casts

Frequently asked questions

What does a urine cast mean?
A cast is a microscopic structure formed from material inside the kidney's filtering tubules. Its significance depends on the type of cast and the other findings in the urine test.
What types of casts can be found?
Common types include hyaline, granular, red blood cell, and white blood cell casts. Each may point to different conditions, so the laboratory and your clinician should interpret the result.
Does finding casts always mean I have kidney disease?
No. Casts can occasionally occur with temporary dehydration or exercise, while persistent or abnormal casts may suggest an underlying kidney or urinary tract condition.
  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