White blood cells (WBCs) in urine should coincide with positive leukocyte esterase on the urine chemistries.
A few white blood cells in urine can be normal. Increased amounts of WBCs indicate bacterial infections of the kidney or urinary tract, interstitial nephritis, or glomerulonephritis.
WBC Appearance
WBCs can vary in size depending on the cell (lymphocyte, neutrophil, macrophage, etc.) They are round with granular cytoplasm and a nucleus, unlike RBCs. WBCs may also appear in clumps.
Lookalikes
Non-motile trichomonas can look like white blood cells, as their flagella may not be visible. For this reason, motility is usually a requirement for positive identification of trich.
Urinary WBC Quiz
White Blood Cell Gallery
