Does Leukocyte Esterase Indicate Lupus?

Most people with kidney lupus (lupus nephritis) will have an abnormal urinalysis. Protein, urine casts (especially red blood cell casts), red blood cells, or white blood cells in the urine can indicate serious kidney involvement; leukocyte esterase may indicate a bladder infection.

What does leukocyte esterase indicate?

Leukocyte esterase is a screening test used to detect a substance that suggests there are white blood cells in the urine. This may mean you have a urinary tract infection. If this test is positive, the urine should be examined under a microscope for white blood cells and other signs that point to an infection.

Can lupus cause a high white blood cell count?

Many people with systemic lupus have abnormal CBCs. White blood cell counts can be low (leukopenia) due to lupus, immunosuppressive therapy, or the presence of a virus. High WBC counts may signal infection but also occur when individuals are on corticosteroids such as prednisone.