Table of Contents
- Overview
- Results
- Risks
- Prevention
- Images
Leukocyte esterase is a urine test to look for white blood cells and other signs associated with infection.
Alternative Names
WBC esterase
How the test is performed
A clean catch urine sample is needed. See:
How to prepare for the test
No special preparation is necessary for this test.
How the test will feel
The test will involve only normal urination, and there is no discomfort.
Why the test is performed
Leukocyte esterase is a screening test used to detect a substance that suggests there are white blood cells in the urine, which may mean you have a
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.
Images
Review Date: 01/10/2010
Reviewed By: David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc., and Louis
S. Liou, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor of Urology, Department of
Surgery, Boston University School of Medicine.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)
