Can this result diagnose a condition on its own?

No. Urinalysis findings are interpreted with symptoms, collection conditions, medical history and related tests.

Which reference range should I use?

Use the performing laboratory's own reference interval and reporting method first.

When should I discuss the result with a healthcare professional?

Clearly abnormal, persistent, symptomatic or unexpected findings should be reviewed by a healthcare professional.

Information about a laboratory test

White Blood Cells in Urine: What Does This Test Mean?

The White Blood Cells in Urine test assesses white blood cells seen in urine.

Test summary

Test name: White Blood Cells in Urine
Abbreviations: Urine WBC, Leukocytes
Category: Urinalysis / Microscopy
Panel: Urinalysis
Specimen: Urine
Common units: cells/HPF, cells/µL

What does the test measure?

The White Blood Cells in Urine test assesses white blood cells seen in urine.

Why is the test ordered?

It is used to provide microscopic information about possible urinary tract inflammation or infection.

Information about a low result

Few or no white blood cells are generally expected.

Information about a high result

Increased urine WBCs can occur with infection or inflammation and are interpreted with nitrite, leukocyte esterase, symptoms and culture.

Reference and clinical context

Start with the performing laboratory's reference interval, method, collection conditions and reporting unit. Urinalysis findings do not establish a diagnosis on their own.

Reference ranges may vary by laboratory, method used, age, sex, pregnancy status, and clinical context. The reference range on your own laboratory report takes precedence.

Interpretation notes

Start with the performing laboratory's reference interval, method, collection conditions and reporting unit. Urinalysis findings do not establish a diagnosis on their own. Interpretation may be more informative when related urine parameters are considered together.

Related specialties

Urology
Nephrology
Internal Medicine
Family Medicine

Frequently asked questions

More information about this test

High White Blood Cells in Urine: What Does It Mean?

Sources

Urinalysis — U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus)
Government medical reference · 2025 · Urinalysis components, routine use and qualitative normal findings · Verified: Aug 12, 2026
Leukocyte esterase urine test — U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus)
Government medical reference · 2025 · Leukocyte esterase and WBC/UTI screening · Verified: Aug 12, 2026
Diagnosis of Bladder Infection in Adults — National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)
U.S. government clinical reference · 2026 · Urinalysis and urine culture in UTI diagnosis · Verified: Aug 12, 2026