Epithelial Cells in Urine

Epithelial cells cover the inside and outside of the surfaces of your body. They are found on your skin, blood vessels, and organs, including your urinary tract (which includes your kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra). An epithelial cells in urine test looks at a sample of your urine (pee) under a microscope to count the number of epithelial cells.

It's normal to have a small number of certain types of epithelial cells in urine. But a large number may be a sign of a urinary tract infection, kidney disease, or other serious medical condition.

Why this test is done

Your provider may have ordered an epithelial cells in urine test as part of your routine checkup or if your visual or chemical urine test results weren't normal. You may also need this test if you have symptoms of a urinary or kidney disorder. These symptoms may include:

• Frequent and/or painful urination
• Abdominal (belly) pain
• Back pain
• Blood in your urine

How to prepare

If your provider has ordered other urine or blood tests, you may need to fast (not eat or drink) for several hours before the test.

You may need to stop taking certain medicines before this test, so tell your provider about everything you take. But don't stop taking any medicines unless your provider tells you to. They will let you know if there are any special instructions to follow.

Sample type

Urine

Other names for this test

microscopic urine analysis, microscopic examination of urine, urine test, urine analysis, UA