Red Blood Cells (RBCs)

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The page below is a sample from the LabCE course The Urine Microscopic: Microscopic Analysis of Urine Sediment. 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 (online CE course)
Red Blood Cells (RBCs)

RBCs may also be found in the urine sediment. They are smaller than WBCs but do not have a nucleus. They may be disc- or spherical-shaped, or may have a spiked or crenated appearance. The top image illustrates the disc shape and crenated appearance.

The presence of large numbers of RBCs in the sediment is associated with damage to the glomerular membrane or vascular injury within the genitourinary tract. The bottom image is unstained urine sediment that contains numerous RBCs.
Note that RBCs may also be contamination if the urine specimen was collected from a female patient during menses.

Disc and crenated RBCs.
Numerous RBCs.