Cholesterol Crystals, Fluid — Qualitative Microscopy
A microscopic examination of a body-fluid sample for cholesterol crystals, often used in the evaluation of persistent joint swelling or other effusions.
["This test checks a fluid sample for cholesterol crystals, which can support a diagnosis of certain chronic inflammatory conditions but are not diagnostic by themselves."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 16614-0
- Short code
- Cholest Cry Fld Ql Micro
- Synonyms
- Cholest Cry Fld Ql Micro
- Category
- lipid
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- microscopy-light
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
This is a qualitative microscopy test that checks a fluid sample for cholesterol crystals. The fluid may come from a joint or another body cavity, depending on the clinical situation.
Why might I need this test?
A clinician may order this test when fluid has collected in a joint or other body cavity and the cause of the swelling or effusion is unclear. Cholesterol crystals can be found in some chronic inflammatory joint conditions.
How is the test performed?
A laboratory professional examines a small amount of the fluid under a microscope and reports whether cholesterol crystals are present. The sample is generally evaluated without additional specialized instrumentation.
How do I prepare for the test?
Preparation depends on the location and type of fluid sample. Follow the instructions provided by your clinician, particularly if the fluid must be collected by aspiration or during another procedure.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Finding cholesterol crystals may support a diagnosis of a chronic inflammatory joint disorder, such as rheumatoid arthritis, particularly in an appropriate clinical setting. Crystals can also occur with other conditions, so the result must be interpreted together with symptoms, examination findings, and other fluid tests.
Short name
Cholesterol crystal examination
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Does the test use blood, urine, or joint fluid?
Are cholesterol crystals always caused by rheumatoid arthritis?
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