Skip to content

Urine Cholesterol Crystal Area — Computer-Assisted Analysis

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

A computer-assisted urine microscopy test that identifies and estimates the area of cholesterol crystals in a urine sample.

Quick summary

["This test checks urine for cholesterol crystals, which may prompt further evaluation when found with other abnormal results."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
55367-7
Short code
Cholest Cry #/area Ur Comp Assist
Synonyms
Cholest Cry #/area Ur Comp Assist
Category
lipid
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
computer-assisted
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 for cholesterol crystals. Computer-assisted microscopy may identify the crystals and estimate the area they occupy.

Why might I need this test?

Urine microscopy may be ordered during a urinalysis, when crystals are suspected, or as part of an evaluation of kidney or filtering-related conditions. Cholesterol crystals can be associated with changes in blood cholesterol or kidney function.

How is the test performed?

A urine specimen is reviewed using computer-assisted microscopy to detect and characterize cholesterol crystals. The laboratory may also perform other urine tests to evaluate the finding.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's collection instructions. Urine is commonly collected as a clean-catch, midstream specimen in a sterile container, and the sample is promptly labeled and sent for analysis.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Cholesterol crystals in urine may occur with disorders that affect cholesterol levels or kidney filtering, including some conditions associated with nephrotic syndrome. They may also be transient or related to other urine findings, so this result should be interpreted alongside symptoms, blood tests, and the rest of the urinalysis.

Short name

Urine cholesterol crystals

Frequently asked questions

What does a urine cholesterol crystal finding mean?
It means cholesterol crystals were detected in the urine sample. It is a finding to discuss with your clinician rather than a diagnosis by itself.
Does computer-assisted analysis mean an advanced scan is required?
No. It generally means automated microscopy is used to help identify and characterize crystals in the urine.
What should I do if cholesterol crystals are reported?
Review the result with your clinician, who can interpret it with your symptoms and other laboratory findings and determine whether follow-up is needed.
  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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy