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Why does my urine report show pus cells and bacteria?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Please find the summary of my urine report attached below, which shows:

  • Leukocyte esterase: 2+ (75 WBC/µL).

  • Nitrite: Positive.

  • Pus cells: 11/hpf (High).

  • Bacteria (rods & cocci): Elevated.

  • No blood, glucose, ketones, or protein in urine.

  • Crystals: Slightly elevated calcium oxalate dihydrate.

  • No RBCs or casts present.

This appears to be a urinary tract infection (UTI). Should I consider starting antibiotics? How can I manage it?

Kindly advise.

Answered by Dr. Ayyala Somayajula Sai Sudha Meghana

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Ayyala Somayajula Sai Sudha Meghana is a medical graduate with one year of clinical internship experience across various specialties including dermatology, family medicine, gynecology, ophthalmology, ENT, urology, and preventive care. She is trained to manage a wide range of conditions—from common concerns like skin and hair issues, PCOS, infections, and fatigue to chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension. Her approach is practical, empathetic, and patient-centered, focused on helping you understand and safely manage your symptoms.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Based on the findings of positive leukocyte esterase, nitrites, elevated pus cells, and the presence of both rod- and cocci-shaped bacteria, this indicates a urinary tract infection (UTI), likely caused by common uropathogens such as Escherichia coli. The absence of blood, glucose, ketones, and protein is reassuring and suggests it is an uncomplicated lower UTI at this stage.

Given your history of UTIs in childhood but no recent symptoms, this appears to be an isolated recurrence. A short course of antibiotics such as Cefixime or Nitrofurantoin, depending on local antibiotic sensitivity patterns and prior tolerance, would be appropriate.

Ensure adequate hydration, urinate frequently, and avoid holding urine for prolonged periods. Since you are not currently on any medications, Cefixime 200 milligrams taken twice daily for five days could be an effective first-line option, assuming no history of allergy or known resistance. You may also consider adding an alkalizing agent, such as Potassium citrate syrup, for symptom relief.

If symptoms worsen, persist beyond three to five days of treatment, or if fever or flank pain develops, follow up with your doctor for a urine culture and possibly imaging to rule out complications such as pyelonephritis. For now, prompt antibiotic therapy along with supportive care should help resolve this episode effectively.

I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At October 10, 2025
Reviewed At October 10, 2025

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Ayyala Somayajula Sai Sudha Meghana is a medical graduate with one year of clinical internship experience across various specialties including dermatology, family medicine, gynecology, ophthalmology, ENT, urology, and preventive care. She is trained to manage a wide range of conditions—from common concerns like skin and hair issues, PCOS, infections, and fatigue to chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension. Her approach is practical, empathetic, and patient-centered, focused on helping you understand and safely manage your symptoms.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Ayyala Somayajula Sai Sudha Meghana is a medical graduate with one year of clinical internship experience across various specialties including dermatology, family medicine, gynecology, ophthalmology, ENT, urology, and preventive care. She is trained to manage a wide range of conditions—from common concerns like skin and hair issues, PCOS, infections, and fatigue to chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension. Her approach is practical, empathetic, and patient-centered, focused on helping you understand and safely manage your symptoms.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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