Urinalysis Results: What High White and Red Blood Cell Counts Mean - Urology

More Info

---

When interpreting urinalysis results, particularly concerning elevated white blood cells (WBC) and red blood cells (RBC), it is essential to understand what these values indicate about your health. In your case, you mentioned having a WBC count of 60 and an RBC count of 40, which are significantly higher than normal ranges.


Normal Ranges:
- White Blood Cells (WBC): Normal values typically range from 0 to 5 WBCs per high-power field (HPF) in a urinalysis. A count of 60 indicates a substantial increase, suggesting a possible infection or inflammation in the urinary tract.

- Red Blood Cells (RBC): Normal values are usually between 0 to 3 RBCs per HPF. A count of 40 is also markedly elevated, indicating the presence of blood in the urine, which can be due to various underlying conditions.


Interpretation of Your Results:
1. High White Blood Cell Count: The elevated WBC count suggests that your body is responding to an infection or inflammation. In the context of your symptoms—frequent urination, pain, and blood in the urine—this is consistent with acute cystitis (bladder infection). The presence of WBCs in the urine is often a sign of the body's immune response to pathogens, such as bacteria.

2. High Red Blood Cell Count: The presence of RBCs in the urine (hematuria) can result from several causes, including:
- Infection: Inflammation of the bladder can lead to bleeding.

- Kidney Stones: Stones can irritate the urinary tract, causing bleeding.

- Trauma: Any injury to the urinary tract can result in blood in the urine.

- Tumors: Although less common, tumors in the urinary tract can also cause hematuria.


Next Steps:
Given your symptoms and the results of your urinalysis, it is crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may recommend:
- Urine Culture: To identify any bacteria present and determine the appropriate antibiotic treatment.

- Imaging Studies: Such as an ultrasound or CT scan, to check for kidney stones or other abnormalities in the urinary tract.

- Further Blood Tests: To assess kidney function and check for other underlying conditions.


Conclusion:
Your urinalysis results indicate a significant infection, likely acute cystitis, given the high WBC count and the presence of blood. It is essential to seek treatment promptly to address the infection and prevent complications. Your healthcare provider will guide you through the necessary steps to manage your condition effectively. Remember, timely intervention is key in preventing further complications related to urinary tract infections.