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Urine Sediment, Microscopic Examination

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

Microscopic examination of urine sediment can identify cells, casts, crystals, bacteria, and other material that may help evaluate urinary tract or kidney conditions.

Quick summary

["Urine microscopy helps detect signs of infection, inflammation, kidney disease, and crystal formation."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
11279-7
Short code
UrnS Cmnt Micro
Synonyms
UrnS Cmnt Micro
Category
urine
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
microscopy-light
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 is a laboratory examination of the solid material, or sediment, found in a urine sample. A microscope is used to look for cells, casts, crystals, bacteria, and other findings.

Why might I need this test?

This test may be ordered as part of a urinalysis or to investigate urinary symptoms such as painful urination, frequent urination, blood in the urine, or swelling. It can also help monitor conditions that affect the kidneys or urinary tract.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected in a sterile container and usually centrifuged. The material that settles at the bottom is placed on a slide and examined under a microscope by a laboratory professional.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the instructions provided with your urine collection kit. Usually, you clean the genital area, begin urinating, and collect a midstream sample without touching the inside of the container.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine microscopy

Frequently asked questions

Does urine microscopy require a blood sample?
No. It requires only a urine sample, which is collected and examined in the laboratory.
What can be seen under the microscope?
The laboratory may identify red or white blood cells, epithelial cells, casts, crystals, bacteria, and other urinary sediment components.
Do I need to collect the first urine of the day?
It depends on the instructions for your test. A first-morning sample is recommended for some examinations, while a clean-catch midstream sample may be appropriate for others.
  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