What should you know about urinalysis with microscopic examination?
Short answer
After a urine sample is processed, laboratory staff can examine its sediment under a microscope. They may look for red blood cells, white blood cells, epithelial cells, bacteria, yeast, crystals and casts. These findings add detail to dipstick results and can help distinguish contamination, infection, bleeding, stone-related changes and kidney problems. The report is interpreted alongside symptoms and other tests.
This answers one question. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace an assessment by a licensed doctor.
At a glance
- Examines
- Urine sediment under a microscope
- May identify
- Cells, casts, crystals and organisms
- Best use
- Adds detail to chemical screening
Understanding common findings
White cells can accompany inflammation or a urinary tract infection, while red cells may come from several urinary or non-urinary causes. Epithelial cells can suggest that skin or genital cells entered the sample. Crystals vary in significance, and casts form in the kidney tubules, so their type matters. Bacteria seen under the microscope do not automatically prove infection because contamination is possible. A clinician considers the collection method, culture results, symptoms and kidney function.
Preparing and following up
Collect a clean midstream sample as instructed and mention menstruation, recent exercise, urinary symptoms and current medicines. If the result is unclear or abnormal, the clinician may repeat microscopy, request a culture, or order blood tests and imaging. Keep the discussion focused on the whole report rather than a single marked line.
When to seek care
Arrange medical review for persistent blood, repeated protein, unexplained urinary discomfort or a result showing concerning kidney-related findings. Seek urgent care for fever with flank pain, vomiting, confusion, severe pain, or inability to pass urine.
Questions for your doctor
Ask which microscopic finding is outside the expected range, whether contamination is possible, and whether culture, repeat testing or kidney assessment is needed. Ask how quickly you should act if symptoms develop.
Find care
General Clinics & Polyclinics in Abu Dhabi
That answer is general. If you want it applied to your own case, these are licensed general clinics & polyclinics listed in Abu Dhabi.
27 Ar Ruwwad St - Shakhbout City - MSH4 - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, Cigna, MetLife +20 more
Al Ruwais, Al Dhafrah
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, AXA, Cigna +16 more
Al Bahyah - Al Bahyah Old - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, Cigna, Allianz Care +18 more
Abu Dhabi
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, AXA, Cigna +27 more
Ordered by verification status and how complete each clinic's public record is, then alphabetically. This is a directory listing, not a ranking — Zavis does not rate or recommend providers.
A factual listing drawn from the DHA, DOH and MOHAP licence registers. It is not a referral, an endorsement, or advice that any of these providers is right for you.
Questions people ask
Is microscopic bacteria proof of infection?
Not by itself. Contamination can introduce bacteria, so symptoms and culture may be needed.
Why are casts relevant?
Casts form in kidney tubules, and their type can help a clinician assess where a urinary finding may originate.
Related
Related reading
Keep reading
Medical disclaimer. This page is general health information, not medical advice, and it cannot diagnose you. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider about your own symptoms and treatment. In an emergency in the UAE, call 998 for an ambulance.