From the Guidelines
You should consult with your healthcare provider about these urine test results, as the presence of leukocytes and elevated white blood cell count suggests possible urinary tract inflammation or early infection. This is particularly important given your history of Type 2 diabetes and your symptom of frequent urination. While your diabetes is in remission, frequent urination (every 2-3 hours) could be related to these urinary findings or could be a lingering effect of diabetes. Your provider may recommend a urine culture to check for infection, and depending on results, might prescribe antibiotics if an infection is confirmed. In the meantime, stay well-hydrated but avoid excessive fluid intake before bedtime, and consider tracking your urination frequency and any accompanying symptoms like burning, urgency, or pain. The connection between diabetes and urinary issues is well-established - even in remission, previous high blood sugar levels may have affected your kidneys and bladder function, as noted in studies such as 1. Diabetes can cause nerve damage to the bladder (diabetic cystopathy), leading to incomplete emptying and more frequent urination. Your provider might also want to check your current blood sugar control and kidney function to ensure your remission status is stable. Some key points to consider include:
- The presence of leukocytes and elevated white blood cell count in your urine suggests possible urinary tract inflammation or early infection, which is a concern given your history of Type 2 diabetes 1.
- Frequent urination can be a symptom of urinary tract issues, and it's essential to monitor your symptoms and discuss them with your healthcare provider 1.
- Diabetes can increase the risk of urinary tract infections and other complications, even in remission, so it's crucial to maintain good blood sugar control and monitor kidney function 1. Given the potential risks and complications associated with urinary tract infections, especially in individuals with a history of diabetes, it's essential to prioritize your health and consult with your healthcare provider about these urine test results.
From the Research
Urine Test Results and Possible Infection
- The urine test results indicate a trace amount of leukocytes and a higher than expected white blood cell count (WBC) in the urine, suggesting mild inflammation or an early infection in the urinary tract 2, 3.
- These findings may be related to the increased frequency of urination, which has been occurring for the past 2 years, especially considering the history of Type 2 Diabetes and current remission status.
Urinary Tract Infections and Treatment
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common and can be diagnosed using various methods, including test strips and microscopic semi-quantitative sediment analyses 4.
- Antibiotic therapy is often used to treat UTIs, with options including trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, nitrofurantoin, and fosfomycin 3.
- The choice of antibiotic may depend on various factors, including the severity of the infection, patient demographics, and potential resistance patterns 3, 5.
Leukocyte and Bacteria Counts
- Flow cytometry can be used to quantify leukocytes and bacteria in urine, providing valuable information for diagnosing and monitoring UTIs 4, 6.
- Cutoff values for bacteria and leukocytes have been established for urine flow cytometers, such as the Sysmex UF-1000i, to aid in the diagnosis of UTIs 6.
- Monitoring leukocyte and bacteria counts during antibiotic therapy can help assess the effectiveness of treatment and predict outcomes 4.
Considerations for Older Patients
- Older patients may be at increased risk for adverse outcomes, such as acute kidney injury and hyperkalaemia, when treated with certain antibiotics, including trimethoprim 5.
- The choice of antibiotic should take into account the patient's age, medical history, and potential risk factors for adverse outcomes 5.