Urine Microscopic Examination (Microscopic Urinalysis)
This test examines your urine under a microscope to check for cells, bacteria, crystals, or other substances that may indicate infection, disease, or other health concerns.
["Microscopic urine analysis helps detect hidden problems in your kidneys, urinary tract, or overall health."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 53968-4
- Short code
- Non-dys RBC UrnS Ql Micro
- Synonyms
- Non-dys RBC UrnS Ql Micro
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 4.2
- Ref high
- 5.9
- Critical range
- 2 N/A – 7 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- microscopy-light
- CPT
- 85041
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003001
- 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 Does the Test Measure?
The test looks for various components in your urine, including red blood cells (hematuria), white blood cells (infection), casts (kidney damage), crystals (urinary stones), bacteria, or other abnormal particles. These findings can signal conditions like urinary tract infections, kidney disease, or bladder issues.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like frequent urination, pain during urination, blood in urine, cloudy urine, or unexplained weight changes. It’s also used during routine check-ups or to monitor chronic conditions like diabetes or kidney disease.
Sample Collection and Preparation
You’ll collect a midstream urine sample (clean-catch) or a first-morning urine sample. The sample is then examined under a microscope by a lab technician to identify any abnormal substances.
Possible Findings and Their Implications
Findings like white blood cells may indicate a urinary tract infection, while red blood cells could signal kidney damage or stones. Crystals or casts may suggest kidney stones or glomerular disease. Always discuss any abnormal results with your provider.
Reference range
Adult males: 4.2-5.9; Females: 3.8-5.1 x 10^12/LN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Microscopic urine analysis is a key diagnostic tool for identifying infections, structural abnormalities in the urinary tract, or early signs of kidney disease. It helps guide treatment plans, such as antibiotics for infections or lifestyle changes for stones.
Short name
Urine Microscopy
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
What does it mean if I have bacteria or white blood cells in my urine?
Can I drink water before the test?
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy