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Urine Renal Epithelial Cell Area Ratio (Urine Epithelial Cell Morphology Assessment)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test evaluates the presence and size of kidney-related cells in your urine, which can help identify kidney damage or disease.

Quick summary

["Assesses kidney health by examining urine for abnormal epithelial cells."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
26052-1
Short code
Renal Epi Cells #/area UrnS HPF
Synonyms
Renal Epi Cells #/area UrnS HPF
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
microscopy-light-hpf
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 blood in urine, persistent kidney issues, or signs of kidney damage. It helps detect early kidney problems by examining cells shed from the urinary tract, including those from the kidneys.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a urine sample, typically collected in the morning. Avoid excessive exercise or certain medications that might affect urine composition for 24 hours before testing.

What the Results Mean

Abnormal findings may include an increased number of large or irregular epithelial cells, which could signal kidney inflammation, infection, or structural damage. Normal results suggest healthy urinary tract cells.

Common Causes of Abnormal Results

Conditions like kidney stones, infections, or chronic kidney disease can alter epithelial cell appearance. Stress, dehydration, or certain medications may also influence results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

This test helps diagnose kidney-related issues by identifying abnormal epithelial cells in urine, guiding treatment for conditions like interstitial nephritis, urinary tract infections, or structural kidney problems.

Short name

Urine epithelial cell count/size analysis

Frequently asked questions

Will this test hurt or be uncomfortable?
No, this is a simple urine sample test with no discomfort. You may feel mild pressure during urination, but it’s normal.
How long will I need to wait for results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times.
Can I drink alcohol before this test?
Avoid heavy alcohol use for 24 hours before testing, as it may affect urine composition and test accuracy.
  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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy