White Blood Cell Clump Area Index (Urinary)
This test measures the presence and size of abnormal white blood cell clumps in your urine, which may indicate inflammation or infection in your urinary tract.
["Clumps in urine can signal urinary tract issues that need attention."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 50233-6
- Short code
- WBC clumps #/area UrnS Auto
- Synonyms
- WBC clumps #/area UrnS Auto
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 4.5
- Ref high
- 11
- Critical range
- 2 N/A – 30 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- automated-count
- CPT
- 85004
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003002
- 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 recommend this test if you have symptoms like frequent urination, pain during urination, fever, or cloudy/pink urine. It helps identify whether clumps of white blood cells are contributing to your condition, such as urinary tract infections or interstitial cystitis.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll likely provide a midstream urine sample in a clean container. Avoid using hygiene products (like feminine sprays) that day to ensure accurate results.
What the Test Results Mean
Results are qualitative (present or absent) and describe the size and frequency of clumps. Higher counts or larger clumps may suggest inflammation, infection, or other urinary issues. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Common Causes of Positive Results
Positive findings are often linked to urinary tract infections (UTIs), interstitial cystitis, kidney stones, or other inflammatory conditions. Rarely, clumps may appear in conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus or certain cancers.
Reference range
Adult: 4.5-11.0 x 10^9/LN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
If clumps are detected, your provider may recommend further testing (like urine culture) or treatments (such as antibiotics for infections). Persistent or recurrent clumps warrant follow-up to rule out chronic conditions or rule out missed infections.
Short name
WBC Clump Area Index (Urine)
Frequently asked questions
How often can I expect this test?
What does a ‘positive’ result mean for my health?
Can I prevent clump formation in urine?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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