Do I need a Leukocyte esterase test?

Do you experience symptoms like painful urination, urgency, or cloudiness in your urine? A leukocyte esterase test can help you understand what might be happening in your urinary tract.

Leukocyte esterase detects enzymes released by white blood cells in your urine, which may indicate infection or inflammation in your urinary system.

Understanding your leukocyte esterase levels can empower you to take early action and make informed decisions about your health. This biomarker is included in Listen Health's comprehensive urine analysis panel, giving you a clearer picture of what's happening in your body. Knowing your results helps you work with your healthcare provider to address any concerns promptly.

Leukocyte esterase — Key Facts
MeasuresUsed to detect the presence of white blood cells in urine
CategoryUrine
Tested inListen Health Standard & Premium membership (100+ biomarkers)
Reviewed byDr Jamie Deans, MBChB

What is it?

Leukocytes in urine indicate white blood cells (WBCs) have entered the urinary tract—usually a sign of infection or inflammation. WBCs are part of the immune system and help fight infections. Their presence in urine, termed pyuria, is detected through urinalysis or dipstick testing.

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Why does it matter?

Pyuria often suggests a urinary tract infection (UTI) or kidney infection, but it can also occur with kidney stones, interstitial cystitis, or sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Detecting leukocytes helps identify inflammation early, prompting further testing or treatment to prevent kidney involvement and chronic infection.

References

  1. Bilsen, M. P., Conroy, S. P., Schneeberger, C., et al. (2024). A reference standard for urinary tract infection research: A multidisciplinary Delphi consensus study. The Lancet Infectious Diseases, 24(6), 679–689.

  2. Miller, J. M., Binnicker, M. J., Campbell, S., et al. (2024). Guide to utilization of the microbiology laboratory for diagnosis of infectious diseases: 2024 update by the Infectious Diseases Society of America and the American Society for Microbiology. Clinical Infectious Diseases, 78(3), e1–e50.

  3. Kuo, I. C., Lee, J. J., Hwang, D. Y., et al. (2020). Pyuria, urinary tract infection and renal outcome in patients with chronic kidney disease stage 3–5. Scientific Reports, 10, 1943.

  4. Lee, Y., Hyun, J., Song, J. E., et al. (2025). Urine leukocyte counts for differentiating asymptomatic bacteriuria from urinary tract infection and predicting secondary bacteremia. Journal of Korean Medical Science, 40(3), e45.

  5. Hooton, T. M. (2012). Uncomplicated urinary tract infection. The New England Journal of Medicine, 366(11), 1028–1037.

  6. Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne. (2019). Urinary tract infection. https://www.rch.org.au/clinicalguide

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AHPRA Disclaimer: This information is general in nature and should not replace individual medical advice. Always discuss your test results and health concerns with a registered healthcare practitioner.