Leukocytes in Urine

The urinary system consists of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. If a urinalysis detects presence of leukocytes in the urine with no nitrates, it could be an indication that there's an infection in the urinary system. Leukocytes are white blood cells that combat infections in the body but their presence in urine most often signifies a bacterial invasion. They are diagnosed during urinalysis and usually affect either the kidneys or bladder region or sometimes both. Normal leukocyte levels in the urine are somewhere around 0-10 lev/vl but if these levels exceed 20 lev/vl, there's an underlying problem or an issue to worry about.

One can detect the presence of any protein, nitrites or leukocytes in urine by performing a urine infection test using a home test kit. Patient can also provide the urine sample for lab testing in which three separate tests are conducted on the sample: microscopic, visual and chemical. These tests give a detailed insight about the urine and the patient's overall health. Leukocytes can be detected either by observing them under a microscope or with the help of a chemical dip stick test which indicates presence of an enzyme released by the white blood cells called esterase.

Leukocytes in Urine Causes

• Kidney infections, like, pyelonephritis can lead to the presence of leukocytes in urine. It's an infection that occurs in the urinary tract and spreads up to the kidneys. However, risk of kidney infections are more common in people having weak immune systems or among those with a prolonged urinary catheter use.
• Bladder infections or cystitis (an inflammation of the urinary tract and ureters) can also lead to leukocytes in urine
• A blockage in the urinary system can also result in hematuria (blood in urine). Obstructions can be due to trauma, pelvis, tumor, kidney or bladder stones, prostate hypertrophy or unwanted foreign bodies in the urinary tract.
• Presence of protein and leukocytes in urine during pregnancy are quite common. A woman while pregnant is more likely to get white blood cells and protein contamination from the vagina. However, if they persist and are more than just trace amounts, it's recommended to consult a doctor to diagnose if there's a bladder infection.
• Another cause for leukocytes in urine is sexual intercourse as the bacteria can get massaged into the urethra.
• Holding urine for too long can cause overstretching of bladder which weakens the bladder, making it incompetent to empty itself completely. This left over urine can lead to bacterial formation causing infection in the urinary tract or bladder itself.
Leukocytes in Urine Symptoms
• Kidney inflammation
• Bladder tumor or systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
• Fever and shivering
• Frequent Urination
• Blood in urine
• Burning and painful sensation while urinating
• Foul smelling cloudy urine
Treatment for Leukocytes in Urine

Treatment for leukocytes in urine primarily depends on the cause of the infection. However, a course of antibiotics works well in clearing up the infection. By avoiding the above mentioned situations, if at all possible, one can surely prevent UTI and the presence of extra white blood cells in urine to fight the infection itself. But if the infection becomes extremely severe, it's recommended to consult a doctor for necessary treatment and in some cases hospitalization is also required.

Urinary tract infections due to leukocytes in urine are more common in women and the conditions can vary from cystitis (an inflammation of the urinary bladder) to severe infections of the kidneys or bladder. However, by maintaining proper hygiene and having a balanced and nutritious diet, one can surely avoid leukocytes in urine in children as well as in adults and lead a healthy life.