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Cholesterol Crystals, Urine — Computer-Assisted Microscopy

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

Examines urine for cholesterol crystals using computer-assisted microscopy as part of a urine microscopy or urinalysis assessment.

Quick summary

["Cholesterol crystals in urine can be associated with certain kidney and urinary conditions and should be interpreted with the rest of your urinalysis."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
99884-9
Short code
Cholest Cry # UrnS Comp Assist
Synonyms
Cholest Cry # UrnS Comp Assist
Category
lipid
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
computer-assisted
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 checks a urine sample for cholesterol crystals. A computer-assisted microscope helps identify and count the crystals, usually as part of a broader urine microscopy examination.

Why might I need this test?

Urine microscopy may be ordered during a routine urinalysis, when evaluating kidney disease, or when a clinician is investigating urinary symptoms. Finding cholesterol crystals can provide information about the composition of the urine.

How is the test performed?

A laboratory technician examines a urine specimen with a computer-assisted microscope and reports whether cholesterol crystals are present. The result is usually interpreted together with other urine and blood test findings.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your laboratory's collection instructions, which may include providing a clean-catch urine sample. The specimen should usually be delivered promptly; fasting is generally not required unless your clinician gives different instructions.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Cholesterol crystals in urine may occur when the urine contains a high amount of lipid, including in some people with nephrotic syndrome. They may also be related to chyluria or other urinary conditions. Results should be interpreted with symptoms, urine protein findings, kidney function tests, and the other components of the urinalysis.

Short name

Urine Cholesterol Crystals

Frequently asked questions

Does a positive result mean I have high blood cholesterol?
No. This test looks for cholesterol crystals in the urine; it does not measure the cholesterol level in your blood.
What symptoms might be associated with cholesterol crystals in urine?
Some people have no symptoms, while others may have foamy urine, swelling, or other signs of kidney or urinary disease. The crystals alone do not establish a diagnosis.
Can this test be part of a routine urinalysis?
Yes. Urine microscopy may be included as part of a standard urinalysis or ordered separately when a clinician needs to evaluate the urinary sediment.
  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