In this article

What is urine microscopic examination?

Urine microscopic examination is a laboratory test that analyzes urine sediment under a microscope to identify and quantify cells, crystals, casts, bacteria, and other particles. This test is typically performed as part of a complete urinalysis and provides detailed information about kidney and urinary tract health. After urine is centrifuged, the sediment is examined to detect abnormalities that may indicate infection, inflammation, kidney disease, or other urinary system disorders.

Why is urine microscopic examination important?

Urine microscopic examination helps diagnose and monitor various conditions affecting the kidneys and urinary tract. The presence of red blood cells may indicate bleeding in the urinary tract, kidney stones, or glomerular disease. White blood cells suggest infection or inflammation, while bacteria confirm urinary tract infections. Crystals can signal kidney stone risk, and casts (cylindrical structures formed in kidney tubules) provide specific information about kidney damage or disease.

This test is particularly valuable because it can detect problems before symptoms appear and helps guide treatment decisions. For patients with diabetes, hypertension, or known kidney disease, regular urine microscopic examination helps monitor disease progression and treatment effectiveness.

How can I better understand my urine microscopic examination results?

Red Blood Cells (RBCs):

  • Normal: 0-2 cells per high power field (HPF)
  • Abnormal: 3 or more cells per HPF

White Blood Cells (WBCs):

  • Normal: 0-5 cells per HPF
  • Abnormal: More than 5 cells per HPF (suggests infection or inflammation)

Epithelial Cells:

  • Normal: Few squamous epithelial cells
  • Abnormal: Numerous cells may indicate contamination or urinary tract irritation

Bacteria:

  • Normal: None or rare
  • Abnormal: Presence indicates possible urinary tract infection

Crystals:

  • Normal: None to few (depending on type)
  • Common types: Calcium oxalate, uric acid, triple phosphate
  • Abnormal crystals: Cystine, leucine, tyrosine (may indicate metabolic disorders)

Casts:

  • Normal: 0-2 hyaline casts per low power field (LPF)
  • Abnormal: RBC casts, WBC casts, granular casts, or waxy casts indicate kidney disease

Yeast:

  • Normal: None
  • Abnormal: Presence may indicate yeast infection

Results should always be interpreted in context with other urinalysis findings (such as dipstick results) and clinical symptoms. A single abnormal finding may not always indicate disease, as factors like hydration status, diet, and recent exercise can affect results.

How can I maintain optimal urinary health?

If you want to maintain healthy urine microscopic examination results, consider the following strategies:

Hydration: Drink adequate water throughout the day (typically 8-10 glasses) to help flush bacteria and prevent crystal formation. Proper hydration is especially important for preventing kidney stones.

Hygiene Practices: Practice good personal hygiene to prevent urinary tract infections. For women, wiping from front to back and urinating after intercourse can help reduce infection risk.

Dietary Considerations: Limit foods high in oxalates (spinach, nuts, chocolate) if you are prone to calcium oxalate stones. Reduce sodium and animal protein intake to decrease calcium excretion and kidney stone risk.

Medical Follow-up: If abnormalities are detected, follow up with your healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment. Regular monitoring is important for those with chronic kidney disease or recurrent urinary tract infections.

Where can I learn more?

DISCLAIMER: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation of your urine microscopic examination results and for personalized urinary health recommendations.