Lipiduria

Lipiduria or lipuria is the presence of lipids in the urine. Lipiduria is most frequently observed in nephrotic syndrome where it is passed as lipoproteins along with other proteins.^[1][2] It has also been reported as a sign following fat embolism.^[3]

When lipiduria occurs, epithelial cells or macrophages contain endogenous fats. When filled with numerous fat droplets, such cells are called oval fat bodies. Oval fat bodies exhibit a "Maltese cross" configuration under polarized light microscopy.^[4] The Maltese cross appearance occurs because of its liquid-crystalline structure giving it a double refraction (birefringence).

See also

• Urostealith