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Urinalysis — Urine Microscopy, Emergency

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

A urine microscopy test examines a urine sample under a microscope for blood cells, bacteria, crystals, casts, and other findings.

Quick summary

["Urine microscopy can help identify infection, inflammation, kidney problems, and urinary stones."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
91564-5
Short code
Source for rumor PH emerg
Synonyms
Source for rumor PH emerg
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

Urine microscopy, sometimes called microscopic urinalysis, is a laboratory examination of a urine sample. A clinician may order it as part of an urgent evaluation of urinary or kidney symptoms.

Why might I need this test?

The test may be used when a person has painful or frequent urination, blood in the urine, flank pain, fever, vomiting, or unexplained changes in urination. It can also help assess possible kidney inflammation or damage.

How is the test performed?

A fresh urine specimen is received in the laboratory and examined under a microscope. The analyst looks for red blood cells, white blood cells, epithelial cells, casts, crystals, bacteria, and other material that may be present.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by your clinician or laboratory. If directed, collect a clean-catch, midstream urine sample in the supplied sterile container and deliver it promptly, keeping it refrigerated if the laboratory requests that.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Blood cells or bacteria in urine may be associated with infection, inflammation, stones, or other urinary conditions. Casts can reflect kidney inflammation or impaired kidney function, while crystals may be related to stone formation. Results must be interpreted with symptoms, the physical examination, and other laboratory tests because some findings are not specific to one disease.

Short name

Emergency urine microscopy

Frequently asked questions

Does urine microscopy diagnose a urinary tract infection by itself?
No. Bacteria and white blood cells can support a possible infection, but the laboratory may also perform a urine culture, and your clinician will interpret the findings with your symptoms and other tests.
Why was this test ordered urgently?
An emergency urine microscopy may be ordered to rapidly evaluate urinary symptoms such as fever, severe pain, blood in the urine, or reduced urine output. It helps guide further testing and treatment.
Can I collect the urine sample at home?
Often, yes, if the laboratory provides instructions and a sterile container. Collection technique and timing can affect the results, so follow the specific directions and ask the laboratory when in doubt.
  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