HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

Get your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM BlogQuestions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction

Could Positive WBC Esterase Be The Cause For Back Pain?

I am heading into Back surgery in the AM, just received my pre op blood test results. WBC Esterase is POS. Do you know what may be the cause? I do not have any symptoms of a bladder infection, and would think if it is of concern, my doctor would have cancelled the surgery or given me an antibiotic prior to surgery.
Thu, 13 Apr 2023
Report Abuse
General & Family Physician 's  Response
Hi,

WBC (white blood cell) esterase is an enzyme produced by white blood cells, and a positive test result suggests the presence of white blood cells in the urine. This may indicate the presence of a urinary tract infection (UTI) or inflammation in the urinary tract.

While a UTI can cause back pain, it is not the most common symptom. Other possible symptoms of a UTI include frequent urination, painful urination, and cloudy or strong-smelling urine. However, it is also possible to have a UTI without any symptoms, especially in older adults.

It's important to discuss the positive test result with your doctor and address any potential underlying issues before undergoing surgery. They may recommend further testing or treatment, such as antibiotics, to address the WBC esterase result and prevent any complications that could arise from a UTI or inflammation in the urinary tract.

Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician
I find this answer helpful
Dentist Dr. Dona raj's  Response
Hi,

Yes, some cases these cells form masses near nerves and joints in the spinal cord which leads to back pain. Rarely it can cause damage to bone within the spine.

Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Dona Raj, Dentist
I find this answer helpful

Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer. For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service [Sample answer]
Share on
 

Related questions you may be interested in


Loading Online Doctors....
Could Positive WBC Esterase Be The Cause For Back Pain?

Hi, WBC (white blood cell) esterase is an enzyme produced by white blood cells, and a positive test result suggests the presence of white blood cells in the urine. This may indicate the presence of a urinary tract infection (UTI) or inflammation in the urinary tract. While a UTI can cause back pain, it is not the most common symptom. Other possible symptoms of a UTI include frequent urination, painful urination, and cloudy or strong-smelling urine. However, it is also possible to have a UTI without any symptoms, especially in older adults. It s important to discuss the positive test result with your doctor and address any potential underlying issues before undergoing surgery. They may recommend further testing or treatment, such as antibiotics, to address the WBC esterase result and prevent any complications that could arise from a UTI or inflammation in the urinary tract. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician