Urinalysis and Body Fluids 6th Edition by Majorie DiLorenzo, Susan Strasinger

Exercise 47

The largest cells in the urine sediment are:

A. Squamous epithelial cells

B. Urothelial epithelial cells

C. Cuboidal epithelial cells

D. Columnar epithelial cells

Step 1 of 2

Squamous epithelial cells:

Squamous epithelial cells are found in vaginal linings and urethra (in female) and lower part of urethra (in male).

• They have noticeable nucleus, irregular and abundant cytoplasm.

• The largest cells present in urine sediment (40-60 micrometers) are squamous epithelial cells.

• In low power magnification, squamous epithelial cells are the first structure which appears in urine sediment.

• Squamous epithelial cells identification is not difficult.

• Their increased number is present in female patients in urine sediment and it has no pathologic significance.

Therefore, in urine sediment, the largest cells are “squamous epithelial cells”. Hence, the correct answer is option.