Pus Cells in Urine: Normal Range,Causes, Tests, and TreatmentYou may have seen pus cells, an off-white fluid that secretes from the injured site, usuallyfrom a popped pimple. Excess pus from any incision or wound indicates you have sufferedan infection, which your immune system is actively fighting. Simply put, it’s a sign your whiteblood cells have fought the infection successfully. Our immune system releases white bloodcells to the target site if it notices a virus, bacteria, or any pathogen within your system. Thepus color could also vary from off-white to yellowish to brown.But what if these pus cells are found in urine? Is it normal? Or does it indicate an underlyingmedical condition?
What are Pus Cells in Your Urine?Pus in the urine is called pyuria. Some of it is considered normal, as these are just the deadwhite blood cells, but if they are found in excess, you might need to get the screening.Pyuria is also classified into two types: sterile and non-sterile pyuria.● Sterile Pyuria – Pus cells are present, but no bacteria or pathogens are detected inthe urine.● Non-Sterile Pyuria – Pus cells are found alongside a bacterial or viral infection.Note that it’s possible that your urine shows sterile pyuria, but you have a viral infection oran undetected bacterial infection. These tests might not diagnose all kinds of infections,which is why further testing is necessary to identify the root cause of the issue anddetermine the most effective treatment.Are Pus Cells in Urine Normal?As mentioned previously, some pus cells in your urine are considered normal, but anexcess of them can indicate a medical concern, like a problem in kidney function or aurinary tract infection. The doctor will recommend a urine analysis test to determine thequantity and type of pus cells present.In rare cases, pus cells in urine might indicate sepsis. It’s best to consult a healthcarespecialist to get a proper diagnosis. They might recommend a few crucial tests to determinethe cause of the pus in the urine and diagnose the underlying medical condition. If younotice cloudy urine or a sudden change in urine color, see a urologist immediately.The pus cells normal range in urine is between 0 and 5/HPF. Anything above that,especially if it reaches 10–12/HPF, is considered an infection. If your urine analysis shows10–12 HPF pus cells, you have most likely contracted a bacterial infection or urinary tractinfection. Many factors can influence the presence of pus cells in your urine, ranging fromhormonal conditions to underlying medical issues. If your reports show higher-than-average
pus cells, the doctor might recommend further tests to rule out the possibility of sexuallytransmitted diseases.Causes and Symptoms of Pus Cells in UrineA bacterial or viral infection can cause pus cells in the urine. The most common cause is aurinary tract infection (UTI), but other underlying medical conditions can also contribute.Here are a few common causes of pyuria:● Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) – The leading cause of pus cells in urine, UTIs occurwhen bacteria enter the urinary tract, leading to inflammation and infection.● Kidney Stones – Stones in the kidneys can cause irritation and block urine flow,leading to infections and pus cell formation.● Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) – Diseases such as gonorrhea or chlamydiacan result in increased pus cells in urine.● Pneumonia – In rare cases, systemic infections like pneumonia can cause pyuria.● Sepsis – A severe bacterial infection that spreads into the bloodstream can lead toincreased pus cells in urine.● Tuberculosis of the Urinary Tract – This rare but serious condition may causepersistent sterile pyuria.● Certain Medications – Some antibiotics, pain relievers, and chemotherapy drugs cancause temporary increases in pus cell levels.Coming to the symptoms, the most common symptoms of pyuria are thick, off-whitish fluidleaking from your urine. Your urine color and texture might be different than usual. It couldappear cloudy. Pus cells from UTI will be associated with burning sensation when peeing,foul-smelling urine, a sudden urge to urinate, fever, pelvic pressure and pain,urgencyurinary incontinence, and nausea.
How Is Pyuria Diagnosed?Pyuria can be diagnosed with a routine urine test. No special preparation is required fromthe patient’s end. A urine sample is collected and analyzed under a microscope todetermine the number of pus cells present.Your reports are considered normal if the pus cell count doesn’t exceed 5-7/HPF. If thecount is above 5/HPF, the doctor may recommend further tests, such as:● Urine Culture Test – Identifies the type of bacteria present in urine.● Blood Tests – Detects infections or kidney problems.● Imaging Tests (Ultrasound, CT Scan) – Determines if kidney stones or structuralabnormalities are causing the condition.● STD Testing – Helps rule out sexually transmitted infections as a cause.The culture and sensitivity test helps determine the appropriate antibiotics if the condition isdue to a bacterial infection.Treatment for Pus Cells in UrineReducing pus cells in your urine is possible only when the underlying medical condition istreated. Common approaches include:● Antibiotics – Prescribed for bacterial infections such as UTIs or kidney infections.● Pain Relievers – Helps manage discomfort associated with infections or kidneystones.● Increased Fluid Intake – Drinking plenty of water can flush out bacteria naturally.● Medications for Underlying Conditions – If the cause is a chronic illness, targetedtreatment is necessary.● Surgical Intervention – In severe cases, such as kidney stones or structuralabnormalities, surgical procedures may be required.
Remember, pyuria itself isn’t a disease; it’s an indication of an underlying medical conditionthat needs medical attention. In some cases, surgical intervention might be necessary, butmost urinary tract infections can be treated with medication.Visit for more: https://ainuindia.org/pus-cells-in-urine/