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White Blood Cell Count with Differential (Urinalysis)

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

This test measures the types and numbers of white blood cells found in your urine, which can help identify infections or other conditions affecting your urinary tract.

Quick summary

["Urinalysis WBCs help diagnose urinary tract infections or systemic conditions like kidney disease."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
105105-1
Short code
WBC UrnS Ql
Synonyms
WBC UrnS Ql
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
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 Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like frequent urination, pain during urination, fever, or unexplained weight loss. It’s also used to monitor chronic conditions like kidney disease or to check for signs of infection in the urinary system.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may be asked to provide a clean-catch urine sample, often collected in the morning. Avoid using strong perfumes, deodorants, or douches near the genital area for 24 hours before testing.

What the Test Measures

The test looks for different types of white blood cells (neutrophils, lymphocytes, eosinophils, basophils, and monocytes) in your urine. Elevated counts may indicate inflammation, infection, or other health issues.

Possible Results and Their Meaning

High levels of white blood cells in urine can signal urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney infections, or conditions like interstitial cystitis. Low or normal levels usually mean no immediate concern, but further testing may be needed if symptoms persist.

Reference range

Adult: 4.5-11.0 x 10^9/LN/A

Specimen: urine

No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

WBC Urinalysis

Frequently asked questions

What causes white blood cells to appear in urine?
White blood cells in urine can appear due to urinary tract infections (like cystitis or pyelonephritis), kidney infections, kidney stones, interstitial cystitis, or sometimes as a side effect of certain medications or conditions like diabetes.
How is this test different from a standard urine test?
This test specifically focuses on counting and identifying white blood cells in urine, often alongside a urinalysis that checks for other factors like bacteria, protein, or red blood cells. A standard urine test may not provide detailed differential counts of WBC types.
Can I take antibiotics before this test?
Yes, you can take antibiotics if prescribed, but inform your healthcare provider before the test. If you’re unsure, ask whether it’s safe to proceed with the test while on medication, as it may affect 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