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Nitrite concentration in urine (qualitative or semi-quantitative screening)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test checks for the presence of nitrite in your urine, which can help detect certain types of bacterial infections in your urinary tract.

Quick summary

["Nitrite in urine may signal urinary tract infections caused by bacteria that produce it."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
5802-4
Short code
Nitrite Ur Ql Strip
Synonyms
Nitrite Ur Ql Strip
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
test-strip
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like frequent urination, pain or burning during urination, cloudy or strong-smelling urine, or fever. It’s also used to screen for urinary tract infections (UTIs) in people who may not have obvious symptoms.

How the Test Works

Urine is tested for nitrite, a chemical produced by certain bacteria (like *Escherichia coli*) that break down nitrates in the body. A positive result suggests these bacteria may be present in your urine.

What the Results Mean

A positive result (nitrite detected) increases the likelihood of a UTI caused by bacteria that produce nitrite. However, a negative result does not rule out infection—other tests or cultures may be needed for confirmation.

Common Causes of Positive Results

Positive nitrite results are most common in UTIs caused by bacteria like *E. coli*, but other bacteria (e.g., *Proteus*, *Klebsiella*) can also produce nitrite. False positives may rarely occur with certain foods (e.g., processed meats) or medications.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Nitrite in urine (qualitative)

Frequently asked questions

This test is a quick, non-invasive screening tool to identify possible urinary tract infections. While not definitive alone, it supports diagnosis alongside symptoms and other tests (e.g., urine culture).
A positive nitrite result means your provider may recommend further testing (like a urine culture) to confirm the infection and guide treatment.
What if I have a positive result?
If your nitrite test is positive, your doctor will likely order additional tests to confirm the infection and choose the best treatment (e.g., antibiotics). Follow-up may include a urine culture to identify the specific bacteria.
Can nitrite results be affected by diet?
Yes, certain foods (like processed meats) or medications (e.g., nitrates) may cause false positives. Your provider will consider these factors when interpreting results.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy