Contents
Leukocytes in the urine in children of any age is always an alarming sign. Especially if the normative values are exceeded several times and this cannot be explained by defects in the collection.
What is the rate of leukocytes in the urine of a child
The normative indicators of leukocytes in the analysis of urine differ slightly depending on the age of the child and gender:
- for newborns – if it is a girl, 8 – 10 is acceptable, for a boy – 5 – 7 in the field of view;
- at the age of 6 months to a year for girls, the norm is 0 – 3, for boys – 0 – 2 in the field of view;
- in children from 1 to 6 years old, 0 – 6 is acceptable for girls, 0 – 3 for boys in the field of view;
- after 7 years for girls, the norm is 0 – 5, for boys 0 – 3 in the field of view.
A slight increase in the level of leukocytes may be a defect in the collection of analysis, with the ingress of leukocytes from the genitals. Therefore, children are advised to repeat the study if the results are questionable.
Causes of increased white blood cells in the urine of a child
Leukocytes are white blood cells that penetrate from the vascular bed into the tissues of the body, protecting it from bacterial and viral agents.
The cause of the appearance of leukocytes in the urine of a child may be inflammatory diseases of the genitourinary system. Predispose to the development of infections:
- anatomical developmental anomalies that violate the outflow of urine;
- anatomical and functional immaturity of the body, including the immune system.
Treatment of leukocytes in the urine of a child
If leukocytosis in the urine is confirmed and there are additional symptoms of infections or inflammatory processes in the child’s genitourinary system, a selection of therapy is required depending on the cause of the disease. The child should be consulted by a pediatrician, nephrologist, as well as a pediatric gynecologist or urologist.
Diagnostics
If leukocytes are found in the urine in excess of the norm, a second analysis is necessary to exclude collection defects. In addition, the baby is additionally prescribed a urine test according to Nechiporenko to confirm the increase in leukocytes. The doctor may also prescribe to the child:
- urine culture to detect pathogenic bacteria in it;
- Ultrasound of the kidneys and bladder to determine the problem;
- blood tests (general, biochemical);
- sometimes x-rays may be required;
If all the results are available, the doctor will determine the diagnosis that led to the increase in leukocytes, and the treatment tactics will depend on it.
Modern treatments
Treatment is necessary in situations where leukocytes in the urine are a sign of pathologies. Most often it is a urinary tract infection caused by bacteria. In this case, antibiotics, abundant fluid intake, uroseptics and anti-inflammatory drugs, and diet are indicated.
When certain malformations are identified, operations can be performed to restore the integrity of the urinary tract.
If leukocytes appear against the background of salts or crystals in the urine (nephropathy), a diet is indicated, correction of the pH (acidity) of the urine due to drugs and fluid intake.
Popular questions and answers
Why is the appearance of leukocytes in the urine dangerous, is it possible to treat a child with folk remedies, and which doctor to contact if the test results change, we asked nephrologist Eteri Kurbanova.