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Cholesterol Crystals, Urine Sediment — Microscopy, High-Power Field

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

A urine microscopy test that examines urine sediment for cholesterol crystals and reports their presence or amount under high-power magnification.

Quick summary

["This test checks a urine sample for cholesterol crystals, which may be associated with certain kidney or metabolic conditions."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
25153-8
Short code
Cholest Cry #/area UrnS HPF
Synonyms
Cholest Cry #/area UrnS HPF
Category
lipid
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
microscopy-light-hpf
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 urine sediment under a microscope to look for cholesterol crystals. The result may describe whether crystals are present and, when applicable, their amount or area viewed under high-power magnification.

Why might I need this test?

Urine microscopy may be ordered as part of a urinalysis, when evaluating kidney symptoms, or when a clinician is investigating abnormalities in urine sediment. Cholesterol crystals can occasionally be found in people with conditions that affect cholesterol, blood proteins, or kidney filtering.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and prepared for microscopic analysis. A laboratory professional examines the sediment, looks for cholesterol crystals, and reports the finding according to the laboratory's method.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by your healthcare professional. A clean-catch midstream urine sample is often requested. Tell the laboratory if you are taking medications or have recently had a urinary tract infection, as these factors may affect the findings.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine Cholesterol Crystals

Frequently asked questions

Does finding cholesterol crystals in urine mean I have high blood cholesterol?
No. Urine cholesterol crystals do not directly measure blood cholesterol and may occur with several kidney or metabolic conditions. Your clinician will interpret the finding alongside your medical history and other test results.
Is this the same as a routine urine cholesterol test?
This is a microscopy test that identifies cholesterol crystals in urine sediment. It is different from a laboratory test that measures the amount of cholesterol in a fluid.
What if no cholesterol crystals are found?
No cholesterol crystals seen on a properly collected urine sample is generally not concerning on its own. Your clinician will consider the result together with the rest of your urinalysis and clinical findings.
  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