Macro/microscopic examination of urine sediment (manual microscopic analysis)
This test examines the cells and particles found in your urine under a microscope. It helps identify signs of infection, kidney issues, or other conditions affecting your urinary system.
["A urine sediment check helps detect hidden problems in your kidneys, bladder, or urinary tract."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 21395-9
- Short code
- Monos+Macros NFr Snv Manual
- Synonyms
- Monos+Macros NFr Snv Manual
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- fluid
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- manual-count
- Specimen volume
- 2-5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 300
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
Your urine sample is examined under a microscope to look for different types of cells, crystals, casts, and other substances. These can include red blood cells (from bleeding), white blood cells (signs of infection), bacteria, crystals (from kidney stones), or protein clumps (kidney damage).
Why It’s Done
Doctors may order this test to investigate symptoms like frequent urination, pain while urinating, blood in urine, or unexplained weight changes. It’s also used to monitor kidney function, detect infections, or check for conditions like diabetes or kidney stones.
Sample Collection
You’ll collect a midstream urine sample (clean-catch) or a random sample, depending on your doctor’s instructions. The sample is sent to the lab, where it’s examined under a microscope by a trained technician.
Preparation Tips
To get the most accurate results, avoid using soaps or feminine hygiene products before urinating. If you’re pregnant, have diabetes, or have kidney issues, follow your doctor’s specific instructions for sample collection.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Urine Sediment Check
Frequently asked questions
Abnormal findings in urine sediment can signal serious conditions, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney diseases (like glomerulonephritis), bladder cancer, or kidney stones. For example, many white blood cells may indicate an infection, while red blood cells could suggest bleeding or kidney damage.
A positive or abnormal result means your urine contains unusual cells or particles that may need further testing or medical attention. Your doctor will discuss the findings with you and may recommend additional tests or treatments based on your symptoms and lab results.
The frequency depends on your health. Routine urine sediment checks are often part of general health screenings, but doctors may order it more often if you have symptoms or risk factors for urinary or kidney issues.
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