What it is: A urine white blood cell (WBC) check, part of microscopic urinalysis, looks for white blood cells in urine sediment as a sign of inflammation or infection in the urinary tract.
Why it's ordered: Ordered when symptoms suggest a urinary tract infection or inflammation, or as a follow-up when a dipstick is positive for leukocyte esterase.
What it detects: Elevated white blood cells (leukocyturia) most often reflect infection or inflammation of the bladder, urethra, or kidneys, though contamination from vaginal secretions can also cause a false elevation.
Collection & prep: A clean-catch, midstream urine sample is preferred to reduce contamination; the sample is centrifuged before microscopic examination. No special preparation is required.
Results:
Elevated (typically >2–5 WBCs/high-power field) – suggests infection or inflammation of the urinary tract
Normal – few or no white blood cells seen
Possible complications of an untreated urinary infection: An infection that isn't treated can spread from the bladder to the kidneys, becoming more serious; elevated WBCs alongside positive nitrites and bacteria typically leads to a urine culture to confirm infection and guide treatment.
Statements made in the Clinical Manual have not been evaluated by the FDA. The products mentioned are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
