Leukocytes in Urine: Everything You Need to Know

A high leukocyte (white blood cell) count in urine is most often an indication of a secondary medical condition, such as a urinary tract infection (UTI), kidney stones, a pelvic tumor, or other disease. Treatment is based on the underlying cause.
 

A complete blood cell (CBC) test or urinalysis may detect a high leukocyte count. Although a rising white blood cell level in the blood indicates inflammation elsewhere in the body, rising levels in urine only indicate the problem to be in the urinary system. When searching for the best hospital for leukocytes in urine treatment, one should select a hospital that has skilled urologists, sophisticated diagnostic equipment, and holistic treatment methods. This blog discusses leukocytes, what role leukocytes play in the immune system, why there would be excessive counts of leukocytes in urine, and what is to be done next.
 

UTI, renal stones, or some other problem, Felix Hospital provides high-standard diagnostics and class-one treatment to help you heal as early as possible. Contact us now by Calling +91 9667064100.

What Are Leukocytes

Leukocytes, or white blood cells (WBCs), are an important part of the immune response of the body. The body creates them to fight infections and other harmful invaders. There are various types of WBCs such as neutrophils and basophils, all of which help in immune defense. If there is an infection or any other abnormality, WBCs will migrate to the infected area to kill harmful pathogens.
 

A rise in leukocyte levels is usually a sign of infection. Although the blood test will be able to identify increased levels of leukocytes in the blood, urine tests can also confirm increased levels, especially if an issue exists with the urinary tract.

Reasons for Increased Leukocyte Levels in Urine

Increased WBC levels in urine can show:
 

• Urinary tract infection (UTI) – Bladder or urethra infection, which occurs among those who withhold urine for hours, long enough for bacteria to grow.
• Kidney infection or kidney stones – Obstruction or infections of the kidney can result in inflammation and elevated leukocytes.
• Urinary tract obstruction – Urinary tract obstruction or blockage of the bladder can result in infection and elevated WBCs.
• Pelvic tumors – Pelvic tumors, either malignant or benign, may cause elevated leukocyte levels, especially if they compromise the immune system or disrupt normal micturition.
• Pregnancy and UTIs – Pregnancy predisposes to UTIs, and treatment needs to be initiated early to prevent complications.
   

Moreover, there are certain conditions that retain urine in the bladder, making the patient more susceptible to infection. Ultrasound measurement of PVR can detect incomplete bladder emptying. In such a situation, infection is not enough—remediation of the underlying cause must be done. If you're searching for the best hospital near me, Felix Hospitals offers expert urological care with advanced diagnostic and treatment options.
 

Sterile Pyuria: High Leukocytes Without Infection

High WBC counts in urine without bacterial infection are known as sterile pyuria. Sterile pyuria has been associated with:
 

• Tuberculosis (TB)
• Sexually transmitted disease (STD)s
• Cystitis (inflammation of the bladder)
• Bladder cancer
• Autoimmune disorders, including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
   

Medications That Raise Leukocyte Counts

Some medications also raise leukocyte counts in urine, including:
 

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Steroids
• Proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) (such as omeprazole, to decrease stomach acid)
• Some antibiotics
   

What's Next

If the urine test confirms the presence of increased leukocytes, further tests will have to be done to know why. Further tests like a urine culture, imaging studies, or blood test may be prescribed by a doctor to prepare proper treatment.
 

Early diagnosis and early treatment prevent complications and provide optimal urinary health.

Symptoms of Leukocytes in Urine

Leukocyte presence in the urine usually suggests an underlying illness. The symptoms will vary depending on why there is a high leukocyte count in the urine.
 

Symptoms of a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

If UTI is the cause of increased leukocyte count in the urine, you might experience:
 

• Frequent urination
• Painful urinating
• Cloudy or pink-colored urine
• Strong-smelling urine
• Pelvic pain in the lower area
   

Symptoms of an Obstruction

Urinary obstructions may be at various locations in the urinary tract, and these give rise to varied symptoms:
 

Lower tract obstruction (urethra, prostate, or bladder): May result in urine retention (raised post-void residual volume or PVR), a common etiology of UTIs.
Upper tract obstruction (ureters or kidneys): Is caused by kidney stones, congenital obstructions, or tumors.
 

Among the most frequent obstructive symptoms is pain, possibly on either one or both sides of the abdomen. With the involvement of kidney stones, the other symptoms might include:
 

• Painful stabs on the lower side or back
• Vomiting and nausea
• Failure to urinate

Diagnosing the Cause of Elevated Leukocyte Counts in Urine

Even in a healthy person, leukocytes can be found both in blood and urine. Excessively high numbers, however, usually signify inflammation.

• Leukocytosis in the blood signifies systemic inflammation.
• Leukocytosis in the urine signifies urinary tract inflammation.

Normal Leukocyte Counts

• In blood: 4,500 to 11,000 white blood cells (WBCs) per microliter (µl).
• In urine: Up to 10 WBCs per high-power field (WBC/HPF).

Diagnostic Tests

If UTI or kidney stone is suspected, the physician will ask for urinalysis in an attempt to check for:

• White blood cells (WBCs)
• Red blood cells (RBCs)
• Bacteria

Other abnormal substance

If suspected of kidney stones, another finding can be seen as crystals in urine, then leading to other imaging tests such as ultrasound and CT scan.

Additional Testing

• If urine contains greater than 10 WBCs/HPF, then inflammation might be suspected.
• If bacteria and nitrites (a product of certain bacteria) are present, a bacterial infection is suspected.
• A urine culture can determine what kind of bacteria are infecting the patient.
• X-rays or CT scans will be prescribed to exclude kidney stones or tumors.

Treatment of High Leukocyte Count in Urine

Treatment depends on the cause:

For UTIs:

• Antibiotics that kill the infection
• Increased fluids to flush out the bacteria

For Upper Tract Obstructions (Kidneys, Ureters):

• Increased fluid intake to assist in flushing out tiny kidney stones

Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL): Shock wave therapy to shatter stones

• Surgery removal for large or blocking stones

For Lower Tract Obstructions (Bladder, Urethra, Prostate):

• Treatment is based upon the individual cause, either medical treatment or surgery.

For Tumors:

If blockage is caused by a tumor, further testing is required. Treatment may involve:
Surgery

• Chemotherapy
• Radiation therapy
• Combination of these methods

Prevention of High Leukocyte Level in Urine

Keeping urine healthy can prevent infection and other disease that render the leukocyte level high in urine. Below are some measures that can help in prevention:

• Stay Hydrated: Have enough fluids to pee out bacteria and toxins in the urinary system.
• Practice Good Hygiene: Always wipe front to back when using the restroom to avoid infecting the urethra with the bacteria.
• Practice Sexual Hygiene: Clean the genital area well before and after sex and dry it completely afterwards.
• Urinate After Sex: This rinses bacteria out of the urinary tract, minimizing the risk of infection.
• Deal with Incontinence Correctly: If wearing incontinence pads, change them often to avoid bacterial development.
• Watch for Changes in Urine: Visit a doctor if urine color, odor, or pain on urination alters.
• Follow Medication Instructions: Follow all the medications as directed by the physician, even if the symptoms resolve, to prevent recurrence of infections.

Visit the Best Urologists at Felix Hospital for Leukocyte Levels in Urine

At Felix Hospital, our skilled urologists provide professional treatment for patients with problems related to their urinary health. Dr. Bhanwar Lal Barkesiya and our staff are committed to diagnosing and treating conditions that can lead to leukocytosis in urine, including urinary tract infection, kidney stones, and other underlying diseases.
 

If you experience symptoms like frequent urination, painful urination, hematuria, or pelvic pain with no cause, consult a specialist immediately. Our most experienced urologists will give a thorough evaluation and customized treatment plan to effectively treat your condition.

Make an appointment with our specialist urologists at Felix Hospital for a thorough evaluation and customized treatment plan. Book an appointment today!

Conclusion

Urine leukocyte rise may also point towards numerous diseases underlying, varying from urinary tract infections and kidney stones to more ominous etiologies such as tumors. Timely intervention and proper control are essential for managing these effectively. Kidney stones and UTIs are often curable and can be treated with prompt attention, yet will definitely recur if preventive measures are not followed. In tumor cases, further testing is required to decide on the most appropriate treatment. Early diagnosis of cancerous tumors significantly enhances treatment outcomes. Urinary health, adequate hydration, and early medical intervention can prevent complications and promote overall well-being. If you are worried about the cost of leukocytes in urine treatment, it may differ based on the causative organism, investigations, and mode of treatment. Consulting a specialist from Felix Hospital can clarify what needs to be done and at what cost.

FAQs on Leukocytes in Urine

Q- Can dehydration cause high leukocyte counts in urine?

Ans- Yes, dehydration can lead to high leukocyte counts by concentrating the urine and thus making infections or inflammation more apparent in laboratory reports. Proper intake of water will help flush out bacteria and toxins.

Q- What are the consequences of not treating high leukocyte counts?

Ans- High leukocytes in urine ignored can lead to conditions such as kidney infection, chronic UTI, or sepsis in extreme cases. Medical attention should be sought immediately.

Q- How are urine leukocytes different from blood leukocytes?

Ans- Elevated leukocytes in blood indicate systemic infection or inflammation, but elevated leukocytes in urine indicate local infection of the urinary tract, i.e., UTI or renal disease.

Q- Are elevated leukocytes in urine an indication of cancer?

Ans- Although UTI and kidney stones are frequent causes, recurrent elevated leukocytes without infection would require additional investigation for bladder or kidney cancer.

Q- Do leukocyte levels vary during a day?

Ans- Yes, hydration status, activity level, and infection may all affect leukocyte levels, and repeated urine tests or culture may be necessary to arrive at a correct diagnosis.

Q- Can pregnancy influence leukocyte count in urine?

Ans- Yes, pregnancy does pose an increased risk for UTIs, which can lead to high leukocytes. Regular prenatal care diagnoses and treats infection early to prevent complications.

Q- Are there home remedies that reduce urine leukocyte counts?

Ans- Although staying well-hydrated and practicing good hygiene might be beneficial, high leukocytes most likely reflect infection or other illness requiring professional care.