Abnormal Urinalysis Results: What You Need to Know - Family Medicine

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When interpreting abnormal urinalysis results, it's essential to understand what each abnormal finding may indicate regarding your health. In your case, you have reported two abnormal results: a leukocyte count of 2+ and a squamous epithelial cell count of 46, with the reference values being negative and <30/UL, respectively.


Understanding Your Results
1. Leukocytes in Urine (2+):
- The presence of leukocytes (white blood cells) in urine is often indicative of inflammation or infection in the urinary tract. A result of 2+ suggests a moderate presence of leukocytes, which could point towards a urinary tract infection (UTI), pyelonephritis (kidney infection), or even interstitial nephritis. Infections are the most common cause, but other conditions such as kidney stones or bladder inflammation can also lead to elevated leukocyte levels.

2. Squamous Epithelial Cells (46):
- Squamous epithelial cells are typically shed from the lining of the urinary tract, including the urethra and bladder. A count of 46, which exceeds the reference value of <30/UL, may suggest contamination of the urine sample, particularly if the sample was not collected midstream. While some squamous cells are normal, a high count can also indicate irritation or inflammation in the urinary tract.


What Does "Negative" Mean?
- In the context of urinalysis, "negative" typically means that the test did not detect the presence of a particular substance. For instance, a negative leukocyte esterase test would indicate no significant presence of leukocytes, suggesting no infection. In your case, the negative reference values for leukocytes and squamous cells indicate that these findings are outside the normal range.


Next Steps and Recommendations
Given your abnormal results, here are some recommendations:
1. Follow-Up Testing:
- It would be prudent to follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation. This may include a repeat urinalysis, urine culture to identify any bacterial infection, and possibly imaging studies if there are concerns about structural abnormalities in the urinary tract.

2. Symptom Monitoring:
- Pay attention to any symptoms you may be experiencing, such as pain during urination, increased frequency or urgency of urination, fever, or flank pain. These symptoms can help guide your healthcare provider in diagnosing the underlying issue.

3. Hydration and Diet:
- Staying well-hydrated is crucial, as it helps flush out the urinary system. Drinking plenty of water can dilute the urine and may help alleviate mild infections. Avoiding irritants such as caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods may also be beneficial.

4. Medication:
- If a urinary tract infection is confirmed, your healthcare provider may prescribe antibiotics. It is essential to complete the full course of any prescribed medication, even if symptoms improve before finishing the treatment.

5. Avoiding Contamination:
- For future urine tests, ensure that you collect the sample correctly to minimize contamination. A midstream clean-catch urine sample is the best practice.


Conclusion
In summary, your abnormal urinalysis results suggest a potential urinary tract infection or irritation in the urinary tract. It is essential to consult with your healthcare provider for further evaluation and appropriate management. Early intervention can prevent complications and promote better health outcomes. Remember, maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and concerns is vital for effective treatment.