The most common use of microscopy is for microscopic urine analysis (Microscopic Urinalysis) and microscopic urine examination.
This test looks at a sample of your urine under a microscope. It can see cells from your urinary tract, blood cells, crystals, bacteria, parasites, and cells from tumors. It is often used to confirm the results of other tests.
Why Is Microscopy needed?
This test can be administered by your doctor to help diagnose the following:
- Kidney disease
- Urinary tract infection
- Cancer
- Reactions to medicines
- Prostate infection
- Liver disease
- Viral infection
- Yeast infection
- Parasitic infection
Is there any other test I might have along with Microscopic Urinalysis?
Other tests may be performed on your urine sample, such as:
- Checking the color and odor
- Measuring the level of dissolved solid substances in the urine
- Checking the acidity
- Testing for protein, sugar, bilirubin, and other substances that may be a sign of different diseases
You may also be ordered to get blood tests.
What do my microscopy test results mean?
You may have different test results depending on your age, gender, health history, and other factors. They may not necessarily mean you have a problem. Find out what your test results mean by your healthcare provider.
Here is a sample of what certain results may mean:
- A high number of red blood cells may mean that you have kidney disease, urinary tract infection, a drug reaction, or cancer.
- A high number of white blood cells may mean that you have an infection or inflammation in your urinary tract.
- A high number of cells called eosinophils may mean that you have problems in your urinary tract.
- A high number of certain kidney cells may mean that you have kidney damage.
- Substances created in the kidney, called casts, can suggest different diseases.
- Abnormal crystals formed from amino acids and certain medicines can be a sign of a variety of health problems.
How is this test done?
Urine tests are a common way to decide if you have diabetes. The type of test you’ll take will depend on your healthcare provider. It can also be done randomly or at a certain time of the day, like first thing in the morning. You’ll either collect the urine from your bladder into a container that’s provided by your healthcare provider or the lab or fill up a clean container with all your urine over a specific period of time (24 hours) and bring it with you. Note the start time, so you know when to provide your sample later on that day.
Does this test pose any risks?
This test poses no known risks.
What might affect my test results?
Under a microscope, certain medicines can alter the appearance of urine, including:
- Sulfamethoxazole
- Ampicillin
- Dyes used in imaging tests
- High doses of medicines that contain salicylate
Your results may also be affected by:
- Stool in your urine sample
- Menstrual blood
- Vaginal medicine
How do I get ready for this test?
It is not necessary for you to prepare for this test. Always make sure your healthcare provider is aware of all medicines, herbs, vitamins, and supplements you take, including any illegal drugs you may be taking.
This includes any illegal or recreational drugs and medicines that don’t need a prescription.