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Urine leucocytes (dipstick)

Urine tests · also printed as Leucocytes (urine), Leukocytes (urine), Urine leucocytes, Leucocyte esterase, Dipstick leucocytes

Typical UK adult rangeExpected result: Negative

Negative is the expected result. Trace and + are graded findings the lab prints as text.

What this test measures

A dipstick pad that detects an enzyme from white blood cells, a sign of inflammation somewhere in the urinary tract.

Why doctors request it

Part of a routine urinalysis at the GP, in hospital, in pregnancy and in many private health checks.

What commonly pushes it up

A urine infection
Vaginal discharge in the sample
Inflammation of the bladder or kidney without infection

What commonly pushes it down

A negative result is the usual finding

Everyday reasons for a value outside the range

Contamination from the genital area is common

About the sample

A clean mid-stream sample, tested within an hour. Grades are printed as Negative, Trace, +, ++ or +++.

Written by a UK consultant physician. Typical UK adult reference ranges; your laboratory's own printed range takes precedence.

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This is an educational summary of results you uploaded. It is not medical advice, a diagnosis or a treatment plan, and it does not replace the doctor who requested the test. If you are worried, or a result is marked outside range, discuss it with your doctor. Written and reviewed by a UK consultant physician. Reference ranges vary between laboratories.