Microscopic examination of urine sediment (crystal count)
This test checks for the presence of crystals in your urine under a microscope. Crystals can sometimes indicate certain health conditions or kidney issues.
["Crystals in urine may signal underlying health concerns that need evaluation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 98028-4
- Short code
- Crystals Smn Micro
- Synonyms
- Crystals Smn Micro
- Category
- chemistry
- 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
Why Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like pain or discomfort while urinating, frequent urination, cloudy urine, or if you have a history of kidney stones or urinary tract infections. It can also help diagnose conditions affecting how your body processes substances in urine.
What Does the Test Involve?
A small sample of your urine is collected and examined under a microscope. The technician looks for crystals, which can vary in shape and size. This test is usually quick and painless, often done as part of a routine urine analysis.
What Are Common Findings?
Crystals can form naturally in urine but may appear more frequently in people with certain medical conditions, such as kidney stones, metabolic disorders, or dehydration. Common types of crystals include calcium oxalate, uric acid, and cystine crystals.
What Does It Mean If Crystals Are Found?
The presence of crystals alone doesn’t always mean a problem, but they can signal potential issues like kidney stones, urinary tract infections, or other metabolic imbalances. Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you and may recommend further testing if needed.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Crystals in urine can be associated with conditions like kidney stones, certain metabolic disorders, or even some types of infections. They may also indicate dehydration or the presence of substances that are unusual in urine, such as certain medications or toxins. Always consult your healthcare provider for an accurate interpretation of your results.
Short name
Urine Crystal Count
Frequently asked questions
What causes crystals to appear in urine?
Do crystals in urine always mean I have a problem?
Can I prevent crystals in urine?
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