Doctor's Assessment Included
Every result includes a professional assessment from a BIG-registered doctor. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.
Urine Sediment Microscopy: What Your Analysis Reveals
Urine sediment analysis helps athletes understand the impact of intense training on kidney and urinary tract health. Exercise can temporarily alter urine composition, and microscopy can identify crystals from dehydration or supplement use, as well as exercise-induced cellular changes.
What It Measures
This test examines the solid components present in urine after the sample has been centrifuged. A trained technician or automated analyser examines the sediment under a microscope to identify and quantify various elements.
Key findings may include red blood cells, white blood cells, epithelial cells, bacteria, crystals (such as calcium oxalate or uric acid), and casts (cylindrical structures formed in the kidney tubules that can indicate specific types of kidney disease).
Why It Matters
Urine sediment analysis provides information that a standard dipstick urinalysis cannot. By examining the microscopic components of urine, healthcare providers can distinguish between different causes of abnormal urinalysis results.
For example, the presence of red blood cell casts may suggest glomerulonephritis, while crystals may indicate a predisposition to kidney stone formation. This detailed analysis is essential for accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment planning.
When to Test
Urine sediment analysis is typically ordered when a routine urinalysis shows abnormal results, such as the presence of blood, protein, or elevated white blood cells. It is also used to evaluate suspected kidney disease, unexplained urinary symptoms, or recurrent kidney stones.
Your healthcare provider may request this test as part of a comprehensive kidney evaluation or when monitoring the progression of known kidney conditions.
Symptoms
Low Levels
High Levels
Pain in the lower back or flanks
Pain or burning during urination
Cloudy or discoloured urine
Swelling in extremities or around the eyes
Recommendations
Male
Normal urine sediment indicates healthy urinary tract function. No action needed.
Abnormal urine sediment findings may indicate kidney disease, infection, or urinary tract issues. Consult your healthcare provider for evaluation.
Female
Normal urine sediment indicates healthy urinary tract function. No action needed.
Abnormal urine sediment findings may indicate kidney disease, infection, or urinary tract issues. Consult your healthcare provider for evaluation.
Lifestyle Tips
Maintain adequate hydration to help prevent crystal formation and support healthy kidney function. Follow a balanced diet and limit excessive intake of foods that may contribute to crystal formation, such as high-oxalate or high-purine foods.
Report any changes in urine appearance, such as blood, cloudiness, or unusual colour, to your healthcare provider promptly. Regular follow-up testing may be recommended if abnormalities are found.