Urinalysis with Microscopic Examination Panel (Urinary Sediment Analysis)
This test examines your urine under a microscope to check for cells, crystals, bacteria, or other substances that may indicate health issues.
["A microscopic urine check helps spot hidden problems like infections, kidney stones, or inflammation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 90250-2
- Short code
- VMA + HMA panel Ur
- Synonyms
- VMA + HMA panel Ur
- Category
- chemistry
- 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 Does the Microscopic Urine Test Check?
The test looks for several components in your urine, including red blood cells (hematuria), white blood cells (pyuria), epithelial cells (from urinary tract lining), casts (kidney-related structures), bacteria, crystals (like kidney stones), and other particles. These can signal infections, kidney disease, or other conditions.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like frequent urination, pain, blood in urine, or unexplained swelling. It’s also used during routine check-ups, pregnancy, or when evaluating kidney function.
How Is the Test Performed?
A small urine sample is collected in a clean container. A lab technician examines a drop under a microscope to identify cells, crystals, or other substances. No special preparation is needed, but drinking extra water beforehand may dilute urine for clearer results.
What Are Common Findings?
Common findings include red blood cells (from bleeding or kidney issues), white blood cells (signaling infection), bacteria (UTI), or crystals (possible kidney stones). Abnormal results may prompt further testing or treatment.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Microscopic urine analysis is critical for diagnosing urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney diseases (like glomerulonephritis), interstitial cystitis, or even certain cancers. It also helps monitor kidney function and identify hidden inflammation or structural abnormalities in the urinary system.
Short name
Urinalysis with Microscopy
Frequently asked questions
What causes abnormal cells or crystals in urine?
How long does it take to get results?
Can I drink fluids 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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy