Review of Common Crystals

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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.

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Review of Common Crystals

The following table lists common crystals found in the urine sediment. Crystals that have no clinical significance must be identified and differentiated from those that can be an indication of a metabolic disorder or other clinically significant conditions.

Crystal

pH

Color

Uric acidAcidicYellow - brown
Calcium oxalateAcidic/neutralColorless
Amorphous uratesAcidicYellow - brown
Triple phosphateAlkalineColorless
Ammonium biurateAlkalineYellow - brown
Amorphous phosphateAlkaline/neutralWhite - colorless
Calcium carbonateAlkalineColorless