Urine Microscopic Examination for Crystals
This test examines your urine under a microscope to identify and count certain crystals that may form naturally or due to certain medical conditions. It helps determine if these crystals could indicate kidney stones or other urinary tract issues.
["Crystals in urine can signal potential kidney or urinary problems that may need further medical attention."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 105054-1
- Short code
- Crystals UrnS Micro
- Synonyms
- Crystals UrnS Micro
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- microscopy
- 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
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like pain while urinating, frequent urination, blood in urine, or if you’ve had kidney stones in the past. It can also be part of routine check-ups for people at higher risk of urinary issues.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll likely need to collect a midstream urine sample in a clean container. Avoid using hygiene products or perfumes near your genitals before urinating into the cup. Drink plenty of water the day before if your provider recommends it.
What Happens During the Test
The collected urine sample is sent to a lab where it’s examined under a microscope. The lab technician looks for different types of crystals, such as calcium oxalate, urate, or cystine, which may appear in varying shapes and sizes.
What the Results Mean
The presence of certain crystals can suggest conditions like kidney stones, metabolic disorders, or infections. However, the results alone may not diagnose a specific issue—your provider will consider your symptoms, medical history, and other test results for a full picture.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Urine Crystal Check
Frequently asked questions
What causes crystals in urine?
How long does it take to get results?
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