White blood cells in urine is a common indication for UTI (Urinary Tract Infection). In this article we investigate why white blood cells in urine occur, their role in our body and how you can test for them with urine testing. Show
Summary of this article
Test your knowledge on this topic:White blood cells in urineWhite blood cells in urine are often a sign of inflammation within the urinary tract infection. The role of white blood cells in the immune system is to kill bacteria which may be present. White blood cells in urine are generally present when a person suffers from UTI (urinary tract infection). As we have discussed in another article, the most common cause of UTI is bacteria ascending through the urinary tract (a bacterial infection). White blood cells will also be present in an infection that is not caused by bacteria (abacterial infections and parasitic infections). The test for white blood cells in urine is a leukocyte test. The reference range for white blood cells (leukocytes) in urine is as follows:
Detecting white blood cells in urineWhite blood cells in urine are diagnosed with a urinalysis for leukocytes. At home and in some clinical settings a common test method is the use of a urine dipstick.
 A urine dipstick is a piece of plastic or coated paper that contains reagent soaked pads. When the stick is dipped into a urine sample they will undergo a reaction. The content of the urine will determine the reaction. Once the urine strip has fully reacted the, the color of the pads on the strip are compared to a color scale on the urine test strip’s label. This comparison determines the result. The result will indicate:
TreatmentIf leukocytes in urine are found this can be an indication of Urinary Tract Infection (UTI). To be certain it is recommended at this stage to visit your Doctor to confirm a diagnosis and receive treatment. An untreated UTI can be very painful and with very advanced infections cause permanent damage to the Kidney. There are many methods advertised on the internet for curing a UTI, and many people have their own preferred method. A Doctor is likely to recommend a course of antibiotics to treat the infection that caused the leukocytes to be there in the first place. Once the antibiotics take effect the concentration of white blood cells in urine will decrease to a normal level. There are different classifications of UTI in men depending on which part of the male urinary tract if infected. Summary
Test your knowledgePhoto credit: Peter Dazeley - Getty ImagesFrom Netdoctor There are all sorts of reasons why your doctor might ask you for a urine sample. You might not think it, but your urine says a lot about your general health, so it’s a useful indicator for a whole host of diagnoses. Should your sample results reveal the presence of white blood cells – otherwise known as your ‘immunity’ cells – you’ll want to pin down the possible causes. Dr Matthew Brown, clinical fellow for Bupa UK, explains what it could mean for your health when white blood cells show up in a urine sample: White blood cells, also called leukocytes or leucocytes, help protect your body against infections. Constantly made in your bone marrow, they patrol your body and rush to your defence at the first sign of infection. ‘Think of your white blood cells as your immunity cells,’ says Dr Brown. ‘They flow through your blood to fight viruses, bacteria and other sources of infection. White blood cells detect sources of infections and help prevent illness.’ It’s important to note that there usually aren’t any blood cells in urine. When your kidneys filter your blood, removing waste and water to make urine, they don’t allow blood cells to pass through. So what gives? Why might white blood cells show in urine?Most causes of white blood cells in your urine are not serious. However, 'it can sometimes mean that you have a medical condition that needs treatment, such as a urine or kidney infection,’ explains Dr Brown. Why? For similar reasons we see white spots on the throat when we have a sore throat and white heads on our skin when we suffer from infected acne – the white areas are collections of white blood cells, which form pus. ‘It is important to note that white blood cells are not visible in the urine,’ adds Dr Brown. ‘They are usually picked up when a doctor tests a urine sample you have provided. If you notice any visible blood in your urine, it is important that you see your doctor urgently.’ Inflammation is another reason white blood cells may be present in your urine, and this could be caused by kidney stones, immune disorders, allergies or growths anywhere along the genitourinary system. White blood cells in urine symptomsWhat symptoms are associated with white blood cells in urine? This all depends on the health condition causing them to appear. Should a bladder infection be to blame, you may experience pain in your lower tummy, feel tired or unwell, or have a pain when you pass urine, explains Dr Brown. Kidney stones, another possible cause, can bring about similar symptoms, along with severe back pain, nausea, vomiting or fever. ‘If you’re experiencing any unusual symptoms, it’s best to get them checked out by your GP,’ he adds. White blood cells in urine testsWhat’s the next step? If you do have white blood cells in your urine, your doctor may ask you some questions to find out what has caused it, explains Dr Brown. If they suspect an infection, they may prescribe you antibiotics and send a sample of urine away for culture and sensitivity to identify any microorganisms. ‘If this happens, it’s crucial you finish the full course of antibiotics, even if you start to feel better,’ Dr Brown says. ‘The doctor may change your antibiotics once they have the results from your urine sample, and if your symptoms have not cleared.’ Should no infection be present, further tests to measure kidney function and to outline the shape of the kidneys using X-rays may be required. Alternatively, your doctor may suggest a cystoscopy, which allows doctors to view the inside of your bladder using a narrow flexible telescope. ‘If the cause isn’t clear, your doctor may request other tests, depending on your age and other symptoms,’ says Dr Brown. ‘It’s important to remember that your doctor should discuss next steps with you. If you do have any questions, it’s best to let your GP know.’ Last updated: 12-02-2020 You Might Also Like
What do white blood cells in urine usually indicate?White blood cells in the urine may indicate inflammation of the kidneys or urinary tract due to bacterial infection. It is important to note, however, that contamination of the urine can also cause the presence of white blood cells in the urine, so remember to practice proper aseptic technique when giving the sample.
What causes white blood cells in urine but no infection?Kidney problems
Kidney dysfunction, as is seen with nephritis or kidney stones, can also cause elevated levels of leukocytes in the urine. Kidney problems can also leads to crystals in the urine or, sometimes, red blood cells.
What happen if white blood cells are high?Produced in your bone marrow, they defend your body against infections and disease. But, when there are too many white blood cells, it usually means you have infection or inflammation in your body. Less commonly, a high white blood cell count could indicate certain blood cancers or bone marrow disorders.
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What does elevated white blood cells in urine mean
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