Microscopic examination of urine provides detailed information beyond routine dipstick analysis.

Clinical uses include:

Detecting urinary tract infections (UTIs) by identifying bacteria, pus cells, and epithelial cells.

Assessing renal disease through the presence of casts, red blood cells, or protein deposits.

Identifying metabolic disorders via crystals (e.g., uric acid, oxalate).

Supporting diagnosis of hematuria, proteinuria, and unexplained urinary abnormalities.

Often performed alongside urine routine analysis, culture, and biochemical tests for comprehensive evaluation.

Analyte: Formed elements in urine under microscopy.

Normal Findings:

Few epithelial cells.

Occasional crystals.

No significant bacteria, casts, or abnormal cells.

Abnormal Findings:

Red blood cells (RBCs): Hematuria, glomerular disease, trauma.

White blood cells (WBCs): Infection, inflammation.

Casts: Hyaline, granular, RBC, WBC casts → renal pathology.

Crystals: Uric acid, calcium oxalate, cystine → metabolic disorders or stone risk.

Bacteria/yeast: Urinary tract infection.

Clinical Use:

Provides a direct microscopic assessment of urinary tract health.

Helps guide diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment planning.

Supports nephrology, urology, and internal medicine evaluations.