Pyuria is a medical term used to describe the presence of an elevated amount of white blood cells (WBCs or leukocytes) in the urine. Typically, there are no or only small numbers of WBCs present in the urine. However, in cases of pyuria, the urine appears cloudy, turbid or may have a whitish or yellowish appearance due to the increased concentration of white blood cells.
Pyuria is not a disease in itself, but rather a symptom or an indicator of an underlying condition or infection in the genitourinary system. It is commonly associated with urinary tract infections (UTIs), which occur when bacteria enter the urinary system and multiply in the urethra, bladder, or kidneys. Other possible causes of pyuria include kidney infections, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as gonorrhea or chlamydia, kidney stones, bladder or prostate infections, and certain inflammatory or autoimmune disorders.
Diagnosis of pyuria involves a urine test called urinalysis, which examines the urine for the presence of white blood cells, red blood cells, bacteria, and other abnormalities. If pyuria is detected, further investigations may be required to identify the underlying cause and guide appropriate treatment.
Treatment for pyuria focuses on addressing the underlying condition or infection. This typically involves the use of antibiotics to target and eliminate bacteria causing the infection, along with additional measures to manage any associated symptoms or complications. It is important to promptly manage pyuria to prevent the infection from spreading to other parts of the urinary tract and potentially causing more severe complications.
