Getting the most from urine and sediment analysis

Urine sediment examination is an integral part of urinalysis which is frequently overlooked as it can be time consuming and requires a functional microscope, a centrifuge and staff with both the time and expertise to perform the exam. Sediment examination allows the operator to identify crystals, casts, cells and bacteria in a urine sample. Failure to perform sediment examination promptly can lead to ageing artefacts which may negatively affect case management. Examination of the urine sediment should ideally be performed within 1–2 hours of urine collection.