What is the significance of urinalysis results showing leukocyturia (leucocytes) and hematuria (erythrocytes) with a moderate mixed bacterial growth on urine culture?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: April 21, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Differential Diagnosis for Urinalysis Results

The urinalysis results showing leucocytes of 117 and erythrocytes of 1392 with moderate mixed growth on culture suggest a urinary tract infection (UTI) or other conditions affecting the urinary system. Here's a categorized differential diagnosis:

  • Single Most Likely Diagnosis

    • Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): The presence of leucocytes and erythrocytes in the urine, along with a moderate mixed growth on culture, strongly suggests a UTI. The mixed growth could indicate a complicated UTI or contamination, but the clinical context and symptoms would guide the diagnosis.
  • Other Likely Diagnoses

    • Kidney Stones: The significant number of erythrocytes (1392) could indicate a condition like kidney stones, which can cause hematuria (blood in the urine) and potentially lead to a UTI.
    • Interstitial Cystitis: Although less common, interstitial cystitis could present with hematuria and symptoms of a UTI without a significant bacterial infection, though the mixed growth on culture makes this less likely.
    • Prostatitis: In males, prostatitis could cause similar symptoms and urinalysis results, especially if the prostate is involved.
  • Do Not Miss Diagnoses

    • Pyelonephritis: An infection of the kidney, which can present with similar urinalysis results and requires prompt treatment to prevent serious complications.
    • Sepsis: Although less likely, if the patient shows signs of systemic infection (fever, hypotension, etc.), sepsis should be considered, especially in vulnerable populations.
    • Tuberculosis of the Urinary Tract: Though rare, it can cause chronic infection and hematuria, and a mixed growth on culture might not capture the causative organism.
  • Rare Diagnoses

    • Malignancy: Certain cancers, like bladder or kidney cancer, can cause hematuria. However, they would be less likely to present with a mixed bacterial growth on urine culture.
    • Goodpasture Syndrome: A rare autoimmune disease that can cause glomerulonephritis and pulmonary hemorrhage, presenting with hematuria.
    • Alport Syndrome: A genetic disorder affecting the type IV collagen in the kidneys, ears, and eyes, which can cause hematuria but would not typically present with a UTI-like picture on urinalysis.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.