Leukocyte esterase is a urine test to look for white blood cells and other signs associated with infection.
A clean catch urine sample is needed. See: Urine specimen - clean catch
No special preparation is necessary for this test.
The test will involve only normal urination, and 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, which likely means a urinary tract infection.
This test is part of the routine urine dipstick test. If this test is positive, the urine should be examined under a microscope for white blood cells and other abnormalities associated with infection.
A negative test result is normal.
Note: Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results.
An abnormal result indicates a possible urinary tract infection.
The following may create a false positive result:
- Vaginal secretions (such as blood or heavy mucus discharge)
- Trichomonas infection (such as trichomoniasis)
False negative tests can be caused by:
- High levels of protein
- High levels of vitamin C
Review Date:
8/28/2007
Reviewed By:
Daniel R Alexander, MD, Department of Internal Medicine, St. Mary's Hospital, Leonardtown, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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