Urine Microscopic Examination (Cells, Red Blood Cells, White Blood Cells, Casts, Crystals, Epithelial Cells)
This test examines your urine under a microscope to check for abnormal cells, particles, or crystals that may indicate infection, kidney issues, or other health problems.
["Microscopic urine analysis helps detect hidden problems in your urinary system."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 58438-3
- Short code
- URCELLS
- Synonyms
- Cells UrnS Micro
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine collection container
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 2
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- microscopy-light
- CPT
- 81015
- SNOMED
- 11701000175105
- Specimen volume
- 10-50 mL
- Stability
- Examine within 2 hours of collection at room temperature; refrigerate at 2-8°C if delayed beyond 2 hours (stable up to 24 hours refrigerated).
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 1–4 hours
- Order
- routine
What Does the Test Check For?
The test looks for several components in your urine, including red blood cells (which may signal bleeding or kidney damage), white blood cells (often linked to infections), casts (tiny protein fragments from kidney damage), crystals (sometimes from kidney stones), and epithelial cells (normal cells shed from the urinary tract).
Common Causes of Abnormal Findings
Abnormal results might be caused by urinary tract infections, kidney diseases, bladder stones, or conditions like diabetes. Some findings, like crystals, can be harmless but warrant further evaluation.
When Might You Need This Test?
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like frequent urination, pain while urinating, blood in urine, or if you’re experiencing unexplained swelling or fatigue that could relate to kidney function.
How Is the Test Performed?
A small sample of your urine is collected in a clean container. The sample is then examined under a microscope by a lab technician to identify cells, particles, or other abnormalities.
Reference range
Dependent on cell type: RBC 0-2/hpf, WBC 0-5/hpf, Epithelial cells few/hpf. Reference values vary by laboratory and clinical context.N/A
No special preparation required. Patient should follow standard midstream clean-catch urine collection instructions to minimize contamination.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: This test is crucial for diagnosing urinary tract infections, kidney diseases, and other conditions affecting the urinary system. Early detection can lead to timely treatment and better health outcomes.
Short name
Urine Microscopy
Frequently asked questions
Why did my doctor order this test?
What do my results mean?
Can I prepare for this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 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