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Epithelial Casts, Urine — Microscopic Examination (Semi-Quantitative)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

A urine microscopy test that detects and may semi-quantitatively report epithelial casts, small structures formed in the kidney's tubules.

Quick summary

["This test checks urine for epithelial casts that may reflect kidney tubular irritation or, less commonly, tubular injury."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
25157-9
Short code
Epith Casts UrnS Ql Micro
Synonyms
Epith Casts UrnS Ql Micro
Category
liver
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Ref low
10
Ref high
40
Critical range
— – 500 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
microscopy-light
CPT
84484
SNOMED
302774002
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 urine test examines a urine sample under a microscope for epithelial casts. These casts are small structures made from cells shed by the kidney's urinary tubules.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test as part of a urinalysis or when evaluating kidney or urinary tract symptoms. It can also help interpret other urine findings, such as protein, blood, or cellular elements.

How is the test performed?

The laboratory concentrates and examines the urine sediment under a microscope. The result may be reported as present or absent, or with a semi-quantitative amount depending on the laboratory's method.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by your clinician or laboratory. A fresh, clean-catch, midstream urine sample is commonly requested, but the exact timing and handling requirements can vary.

Reference range

Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A

Specimen: urine

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine epithelial casts

Frequently asked questions

What are epithelial casts?
They are small microscopic structures formed when proteins lining the kidney's tubules trap cells that have been shed into the urine.
Do epithelial casts always mean kidney disease?
No. They may occasionally be found without significant illness, so the result must be considered with symptoms and other urine or blood test findings.
Does this test require a blood sample?
No. It is performed on a urine sample, using a fresh specimen when requested by the laboratory.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy