Urine esterase is a substance found in a urine sample. Its presence suggests certain cells are present, pointing to specific health conditions. Understanding urine esterase and its detection clarifies initial screening results.
Understanding Urine Esterase
Urine esterase is an enzyme produced by specific types of white blood cells, primarily neutrophils. These white blood cells are a part of the body’s immune system, typically responding to infections or inflammation.
When these neutrophils are present in the urinary tract due to an infection or inflammatory process, they release urine esterase into the urine. Detecting this enzyme serves as an indirect indicator of these immune cells. The level of urine esterase generally correlates with the concentration of white blood cells in the urine.
Why Urine Esterase is Tested
Urine esterase testing serves as a preliminary screening tool to detect white blood cells in the urine. White blood cells in urine frequently suggest an ongoing infection or inflammation within the urinary system. This initial test helps determine if further diagnostic steps are warranted.
The test is commonly performed using a urine dipstick, a small strip treated with chemicals that react to the enzyme. This method provides a quick result, often within a few minutes, making it suitable for rapid assessment. It guides subsequent diagnostic actions.
Interpreting Urine Esterase Test Results
A positive urine esterase result indicates the presence of white blood cells, specifically neutrophils, in the urine. This finding strongly suggests a urinary tract infection (UTI) or another form of inflammation within the urinary system. The intensity of the color change on the dipstick can sometimes offer a rough estimation of the number of white blood cells present.
A negative urine esterase result means no significant amount of white blood cells or the enzyme they produce was detected in the urine sample. While this indicates the absence of a bacterial UTI, it does not completely rule out all urinary tract issues. Some infections, such as those caused by certain fungi or viruses, might not trigger a strong white blood cell response.
A positive urine esterase result is a screening finding, not a definitive diagnosis. Other factors, like contamination, can occasionally lead to a false positive result. Therefore, additional testing is necessary to confirm the specific cause of white blood cells in the urine.
What Happens After a Positive Result
Following a positive urine esterase result, healthcare providers recommend further diagnostic tests to confirm the underlying cause. A standard next step is a complete urinalysis, which includes microscopic examination of the urine sediment to directly count white blood cells and look for bacteria or other abnormal components.
A urine culture is also performed to identify any specific bacteria causing an infection and to determine their susceptibility to different antibiotics. This culture involves growing bacteria from the urine sample in a laboratory. The results from these additional tests guide appropriate treatment.
If a bacterial infection is confirmed, treatment involves a course of antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare professional. The specific antibiotic chosen will depend on the identified bacteria and the individual’s medical history. Consult a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan.