Epithelial Cells in Urine
Explanation
Epithelial cells in urine are surface-lining cells seen during the microscopic part of a urine test. Their type, amount, and the way the sample was collected affect what the finding means.
What are epithelial cells in urine?
Epithelial cells line body surfaces and organs. A few may enter urine normally. A laboratory can count and identify them under a microscope as one part of a broader urine test called urinalysis.
Why does the cell type matter?
Different epithelial cell types come from different parts of the urinary or genital tract. The report may describe the amount as few, moderate, or many. The type and amount are more useful than the word “epithelial” alone.
Can collection affect the result?
Yes. One type of epithelial cell is called a squamous cell. These cells can enter the container from skin or the genital area during collection. A larger number may therefore suggest that the sample was contaminated rather than showing a urinary-tract problem.
Does an abnormal result give a diagnosis?
No. Moderate or many epithelial cells can have several explanations. The finding is interpreted with symptoms and other urinalysis results, and a repeat sample or further testing may be needed.
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