Leukocyte esterase urine test

A clean-catch urine sample is preferred. The clean-catch method is used to prevent germs from the penis or vagina from getting into a urine sample. To collect your urine, the health care provider may give you a special clean-catch kit that contains a cleansing solution and sterile wipes. Follow instructions exactly so…

No special steps are needed to prepare for this test.

The test will involve only normal urination. There is no discomfort.

Leukocyte esterase is a screening test used to detect a substance that suggests there are white blood cells in the urine. This may mean you have a urinary tract infection . If this test is positive, the urine should be examined under a microscope for white blood cells and other signs that point to an infection.

A negative test result is normal.

An abnormal result indicates a possible urinary tract infection. The following may cause an abnormal test result, even when you do not have a urinary tract infection: Trichomonas infection (such as trichomoniasis) Vaginal secretions (such as blood or heavy mucus discharge) The following may interfere with a positive…

Castle EP, Wolter CE, Woods ME. Evaluation of the urologic patient: testing and imaging. In: Partin AW, Dmochowski RR, Kavoussi LR, Peters CA, eds. Campbell-Walsh-Wein Urology . 12th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 2. Riley RS, McPherson RA. Basic examination of urine. In: McPherson RA, Pincus MR, eds.…