Leukocyte esterase urine test

Leukocyte Esterase Urine Test

A leukocyte esterase urine test is a medical test used to detect the presence of white blood cells (leukocytes) in the urine. It is often ordered as a part of a routine urinalysis and may indicate an infection or a bladder issue. It is also used in pregnant women to check for a condition called preeclampsia.

Preparation

In most cases, no preparation is required for a leukocyte esterase urine test. Since it is part of a routine urinalysis, it is usually done as part of a larger collection of tests. Your doctor may ask you to fast for a period of time or to avoid consuming certain substances prior to the test, depending on the type of leukocyte esterase urine test being performed.

Procedure

The procedure for a leukocyte esterase urine test is relatively simple. First, a urine sample is obtained from the patient and placed into a lab container. The lab personnel will then analyze the sample to determine the presence of white blood cells. Depending on the type of test being performed, different quantitative or qualitative tests may be performed on the sample.

Types

The type of leukocyte esterase urine test performed will depend on the reason it is being ordered. Some of the most common types include:

• Leukocyte esterase test strip: This is the most basic type of test, and involves applying a strip to a urine sample. If the strip changes color, it indicates the presence of white blood cells.
• Quantitative test: A quantitative test measures the amount of leukocytes present in a urine sample. This is normally done with a microscope or with a more advanced test, like flow cytometry.
• Qualitative test: A qualitative test looks at the shape, size, and color of leukocytes to analyze their presence in a urine sample.

Risks

The leukocyte esterase urine test is generally considered safe. There is very little risk associated with the procedure, and no side effects or complications have been reported.

Why Is It Performed?

The leukocyte esterase urine test is performed to detect the presence of white blood cells in the urine, which may indicate an infection or inflammation of the urinary tract. It is also used to detect a condition called preeclampsia in pregnant women.

When Is It Performed?

The leukocyte esterase urine test is often part of a routine urinalysis. It may also be performed if a doctor suspects an infection or inflammation in the urinary tract. In pregnant women, the test may be used to detect the presence of preeclampsia.