Urinary leukocytes are white blood cells found in urine. They are typically absent or present in very small numbers, and higher levels often signal infection or inflammation in the urinary tract or kidneys. Their detection is an important marker for diagnosing urinary tract infections (UTIs) and other kidney-related conditions.
Testing for urinary leukocyte levels is beneficial for individuals showing symptoms of a urinary tract infection, such as painful urination or frequent urges to urinate. It’s also useful for those with suspected kidney infections, individuals with diabetes or weakened immune systems, and pregnant women, as they are at higher risk for UTIs.
To lower urinary leukocyte levels, it’s essential to treat the underlying cause, typically a urinary tract or kidney infection. This usually involves antibiotics to eliminate the infection. Drinking plenty of water helps flush bacteria from the urinary tract. Maintaining good hygiene, particularly around the genital area, is also important to prevent infections.