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Cholesterol Crystals, Urine — Microscopy, Number per Area

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

A urine microscopy test that looks for cholesterol crystals in the urine sediment. Crystals may accompany heavy protein loss but can also occur in other conditions.

Quick summary

["Cholesterol crystals in urine can be a sign of significant protein loss, such as in nephrotic syndrome, but the finding must be interpreted with other urine and blood test results."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
77964-5
Short code
Cholest Cry #/area UrnS LPF
Synonyms
Cholest Cry #/area UrnS LPF
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-lpf
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 identify cholesterol crystals. The laboratory may report the number seen in a specified counting area.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test when evaluating kidney disease, especially when urine testing shows a large amount of protein. Cholesterol crystals can be associated with nephrotic syndrome, a condition in which the kidneys release substantial protein into the urine.

How is the test performed?

The urine is placed on a microscope slide, and the sediment is examined for the characteristic shape and appearance of cholesterol crystals. The result may include the number of crystals observed in the area examined.

How do I prepare for the test?

Usually, a fresh urine sample is collected in a clean, sterile container and delivered to the laboratory promptly. Follow any instructions from your clinician regarding a first-morning, clean-catch, or timed urine collection; fasting is generally not required.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine Cholesterol Crystals

Frequently asked questions

What do cholesterol crystals in urine mean?
They may indicate increased urinary protein loss, including nephrotic syndrome, but they are not specific to one condition. Other urine and blood test results are needed to determine the cause.
Does a positive result mean I have nephrotic syndrome?
No. Cholesterol crystals support a possible diagnosis when combined with findings such as heavy proteinuria, low blood albumin, and swelling, but they do not establish the diagnosis by themselves.
Is this the same as a blood cholesterol test?
No. This test looks for cholesterol crystals in urine under a microscope, whereas a blood cholesterol test measures cholesterol concentration in the bloodstream.
  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