Differential Diagnosis for Positive Leukocyte on Urine
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): The presence of leukocytes in the urine is a strong indicator of a UTI, as it suggests an inflammatory response to a bacterial infection.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Kidney Stone: Leukocytes can be present in the urine due to the irritation and inflammation caused by a kidney stone.
- Interstitial Nephritis: This condition, often caused by an allergic reaction to certain medications, can lead to inflammation in the kidneys and the presence of leukocytes in the urine.
- Prostatitis: Inflammation of the prostate gland can cause leukocytes to appear in the urine.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Pyelonephritis: An infection of the kidney itself, which can be severe and requires prompt treatment. Leukocytes in the urine can be an indicator of this condition.
- Sepsis: Although less common, the presence of leukocytes in the urine could be a sign of a more systemic infection, such as sepsis, especially in vulnerable populations.
- Tuberculosis: Genitourinary tuberculosis, though rare, can cause leukocytes in the urine and is important not to miss due to its treatment implications.
Rare Diagnoses
- Malignancy: Certain cancers, like bladder or kidney cancer, can cause inflammation leading to leukocytes in the urine, though this is less common.
- Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): This autoimmune disease can affect the kidneys and cause leukocytes in the urine.
- Goodpasture Syndrome: A rare autoimmune disease that can cause kidney inflammation and the presence of leukocytes in the urine.