Casts
- Sample Type
- Standard
- Fasting
- No
- Unit
- /LPF
Casts are cylindrical structures produced by the kidney and secreted in the urine. They are formed in the lumen of the distal convoluted tubule and collecting ducts. Their presence in the 'Urine Routine' panel indicates a breakdown in the renal filtration or tubular system. Different types have distinct meanings: Hyaline casts can be normal (after exercise), while Red Blood Cell (RBC) casts indicate glomerulonephritis, and Granular or Waxy casts suggest chronic renal disease or stasis.
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Enter your lab result to see where you stand compared to the standard reference range.
Why Context Matters
Casts are fragile and disintegrate rapidly in alkaline urine or samples that have been left at room temperature too long. A 'negative' result may be a false negative due to improper handling, while strenuous exercise or dehydration can produce 'false positive' hyaline casts in healthy individuals.
Lab ranges are statistical averages, not biological laws. "Normal" for a 20-year-old male isn't normal for a 60-year-old female.
Clinical References
Source-of-truth databases and clinical guidelines for Casts:
Official Sources
Research & Guidelines
- PubMed: Casts Clinical GuidelinesNCBI / PubMed
Related Indicators
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Binoy Babu, MBBS
Board Certified Doctor • 10+ Years Clinical Experience
Dr. Babu is a practicing physician dedicated to empowering patients with clear, actionable medical information. He founded 2opi to bridge the gap between complex lab reports and patient understanding, ensuring everyone has access to a reliable second opinion.
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