Skip to content

Cholesterol Crystals, Urine — Semi-quantitative Light Microscopy

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

A urine microscopy test that estimates the amount of cholesterol crystals in a urine sample.

Quick summary

["This test checks a urine sample for cholesterol crystals, which may be associated with several kidney or lymphatic conditions."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
5777-8
Short code
Cholest Cry UrnS Ql Micro
Synonyms
Cholest Cry UrnS Ql Micro
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
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 look for cholesterol crystals. The laboratory may report the finding as present, absent, or with a semi-quantitative estimate of the amount seen.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test when urine microscopy shows unusual crystals or when symptoms suggest a condition affecting the kidneys, urine, or lymphatic system. It is usually interpreted alongside the urinalysis, medical history, and other laboratory tests.

How is the test performed?

A fresh urine specimen is examined using light microscopy. The laboratory looks for the characteristic appearance of cholesterol crystals and estimates how many are present.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's collection instructions, which may include a clean-catch urine sample and delivering it promptly. Good hand hygiene and using the provided sterile container help reduce contamination.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine Cholesterol Crystals

Frequently asked questions

Does finding cholesterol crystals in urine mean I have high cholesterol?
Not necessarily. Urine cholesterol crystals can be related to kidney or lymphatic conditions as well as changes in blood cholesterol, so other clinical information is needed to interpret the result.
Is this the same as a blood cholesterol test?
No. This test examines crystals in a urine specimen under a microscope, whereas a blood cholesterol test measures cholesterol in blood.
Do I need to fast for this test?
Fasting is generally not required, but collection instructions can vary. Follow the instructions provided by the laboratory or your clinician.
  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