Characteristics of Cellular Elements

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The page below is a sample from the LabCE course The Urine Microscopic: Microscopic Analysis of Urine Sediment [retired 6/23/2016]. Access the complete course and earn ASCLS P.A.C.E.-approved continuing education credits by subscribing online.

Learn more about The Urine Microscopic: Microscopic Analysis of Urine Sediment [retired 6/23/2016] (online CE course)
Characteristics of Cellular Elements

To review the characteristics of the cellular elements that can be seen in urine, study the following table.

Cell

Significance

Epithelial - SquamousMust be differentiated from other cells.
Epithelial - Cuboidal or Renal TubularIncreased numbers indicate tubular necrosis, particularly important in renal graft rejection. Tubular damage caused by viral or bacterial infections.
Epithelial - Transitional or CaudateNot significant unless found in large numbers or abnormal in appearance.
White Blood Cells (WBCs)Bacterial infection.
Red Blood Cells (RBCs)More than an occasional RBC can be significant. They are often associated with damage to the glomerular membrane of vascular injury within the genitourinary tract.
Ghost Cells Alkaline urine causes RBCs to lyse, their empty membranes are called "ghost cells." Empty RBCs have the same significance as RBCs.
YeastCan be confused with RBCs unless they are budding. Yeast can be seen in diabetes mellitus or in patients with vaginal moniliasis.
BacteriaMay be a contaminant unless WBCs are present.