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Cholesterol Crystals, Urine — Qualitative

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

A urine test that checks for cholesterol crystals and identifies their presence using a qualitative examination.

Quick summary

["Cholesterol crystals in urine can occur with conditions that cause high urinary lipid levels, including nephrotic syndrome."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
93504-9
Short code
Cholest Cry Stone Ql XR diff
Synonyms
Cholest Cry Stone Ql XR diff
Category
lipid
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
xr-diffraction
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 examines urine for cholesterol crystals. It is a qualitative test, meaning it reports whether cholesterol crystals are present rather than measuring a specific amount.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test when urine symptoms or findings suggest the presence of abnormal crystals. Cholesterol crystals may be found in people with high blood cholesterol levels, nephrotic syndrome, or other causes of excess urinary lipids.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and examined in the laboratory for crystals. The laboratory may use microscopy or another crystal-identification method to determine whether cholesterol crystals are present.

How do I prepare for the test?

This test usually does not require fasting. Follow your clinician's instructions for collection, including whether a first-morning or clean-catch urine sample is preferred.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine Cholesterol Crystals

Frequently asked questions

Does a positive result mean I have high cholesterol?
Not necessarily. Cholesterol crystals in urine can reflect increased urinary lipids, but the result must be interpreted alongside blood cholesterol testing and other clinical findings.
Can cholesterol crystals be found in a healthy person?
They may occasionally be identified, particularly when urinary lipid levels are elevated. An isolated finding does not by itself establish a disease.
Do I need to repeat the test?
Repeat testing may be needed if the specimen was not collected properly or if your clinician wants to confirm an unexpected finding. Follow the specific instructions provided with your test order.
  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