What does it mean when urine leukocyte esterase is positive 2+?
Nov 21, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
In general, a positive 2+ urine leukocyte esterase test indicates an elevated number of white blood cells in the urine compared to normal levels, which may be related to factors such as drug reactions, urethritis, prostatitis, pyelonephritis, or urinary stones. Patients should seek medical evaluation promptly to determine the underlying cause and receive standardized treatment under a doctor's guidance to avoid delaying the condition.
In general, a urine leukocyte esterase result of 2+ indicates an elevated number of white blood cells in the urine compared to normal levels, which may be related to factors such as drug reactions, urethritis, prostatitis, pyelonephritis, or urethral stones. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:
1. Drug Reactions
Certain medications, such as antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs, may cause changes in the number of white blood cells in the urine. For example, prolonged use of antibiotics may lead to microbial imbalance, potentially causing urinary tract infections and increasing the number of white blood cells in the urine. Patients are advised to discontinue the medication immediately, seek medical attention, and follow the doctor's instructions for treatment.
2. Urethritis
Urethritis is caused by bacterial infection and typically presents with symptoms such as redness and swelling of the urethral opening, pain, frequent urination, urgency, and dysuria. White blood cells accumulate in large numbers in the urethra to combat the infection. Patients are advised to take medications such as cefixime tablets or levofloxacin tablets as prescribed by their doctor.
3. Prostatitis
Prostatitis refers to inflammation of the prostate gland and commonly manifests as symptoms including frequent urination, urgency, and painful urination. The number of white blood cells in prostatic fluid increases, leading to elevated white blood cell counts in the urine. Patients are advised to take medications such as diclofenac sodium sustained-release capsules or terazosin hydrochloride tablets as directed by their physician.
4. Pyelonephritis
Pyelonephritis is a kidney infection caused by bacteria and usually presents with fever, flank pain, and symptoms such as frequent urination, urgency, and dysuria. The condition can damage renal tubules, resulting in increased white blood cells in the urine. Patients should take medications such as amoxicillin-clavulanate potassium tablets or cefuroxime axetil tablets as prescribed by their doctor.
5. Urethral Stones
Urethral stones can obstruct the urethra, impeding urine flow. They may also irritate the urethral mucosa, leading to urethral inflammation and an increased number of white blood cells. Patients are advised to take medications such as diclofenac sodium sustained-release capsules or potassium sodium citrate granules as directed by their healthcare provider.
Patients should seek timely medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause and receive standardized treatment under a doctor’s guidance to avoid delays in care. During treatment, patients should ensure adequate rest, avoid overexertion, and maintain a regular daily routine.
