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Cholesterol Crystals — Qualitative

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

A qualitative test that checks a body-fluid specimen for cholesterol crystals, which can sometimes be seen when certain lipids are present.

Quick summary

["Detecting cholesterol crystals can provide clues about lipid-related conditions, but results must be interpreted with other findings."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
16613-2
Short code
Cholest Cry Stone Ql IR
Synonyms
Cholest Cry Stone Ql IR
Category
lipid
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
infrared-spectroscopy
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 test looks for cholesterol crystals in a specimen. Cholesterol is a fatty substance made by the body and obtained from food.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test when symptoms or other laboratory findings suggest that cholesterol may have collected in a body fluid or tissue sample.

How is the test performed?

A laboratory professional examines the specimen, usually under a microscope, for the characteristic appearance of cholesterol crystals. The result may be reported as present or absent.

How do I prepare for the test?

Preparation depends on the type of specimen being tested. Follow the laboratory's collection instructions, and tell the healthcare team if you are pregnant or may be breastfeeding.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Cholesterol Crystals

Frequently asked questions

Does a positive result mean I have high cholesterol?
Not necessarily. This test identifies crystals in the collected specimen; it does not directly measure the cholesterol concentration in your blood.
Is this the same as a blood cholesterol test?
No. A standard blood lipid panel measures cholesterol in the blood, while this test checks a specimen for visible cholesterol crystals.
What happens if cholesterol crystals are not found?
A negative result means crystals were not detected in that specimen. Other tests may still be needed to evaluate the reason for your symptoms.
  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