Pus cells in urine are often an early indicator of infection or inflammation in the urinary tract. While a few pus cells are usually harmless, a higher count could indicate an infection or inflammation that needs attention. Many people may not notice symptoms at first, but timely testing can help catch issues like urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney problems, or other underlying health concerns early on. Understanding what pus cells mean and how to interpret their levels is an important step toward maintaining overall urinary health - in this article, we’ll be covering all that. Read on. 

What is the Normal Range of Pus Cells in Urine?

The normal range of pus cells in urine typically depends on how the sample is collected and the method of analysis. In a clean-catch midstream urine sample:

• 0 to 5 pus cells per high-power field (HPF) is generally considered normal
• 6 to 10 pus cells/HPF may be borderline or mildly elevated
• More than 10 pus cells/HPF is usually considered abnormal and may indicate infection or inflammation

For females, slightly higher counts can sometimes occur due to contamination from vaginal secretions during sample collection. That’s why proper sample collection technique is important for accurate results. Persistent or high counts may require further evaluation, even in the absence of symptoms.

Why Do Pus Cells Appear in Urine?

An elevated number of pus cells in urine often means the body is responding to a possible infection or irritation within the urinary tract. These white blood cells accumulate as part of the immune system’s defence against harmful microbes or inflammation.

Common Causes Of High Pus Cells In Urine

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs): The most frequent cause, especially in women, due to shorter urethra length.
• Kidney infections (pyelonephritis): A more serious form of UTI that affects the upper urinary tract.
• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs): Such as chlamydia or gonorrhoea, which may cause inflammation and pus in urine.
• Kidney stones: Can cause irritation, blockage, and secondary infection.
• Poor hygiene: Especially in children or older adults, leading to bacterial contamination.
• Use of urinary catheters: Increases the risk of infection and inflammation.
• Tuberculosis of the urinary tract: A rare but serious cause in some regions.

Possible Symptoms of High Pus Cells

While some individuals with elevated pus cells may have no noticeable symptoms, many experience signs that point to underlying urinary or kidney issues. These symptoms often coincide with infections or inflammation in the urinary tract.

Common symptoms include:

• Burning sensation while urinating
• Increased frequency or urgency to urinate
• Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
• Lower abdominal or pelvic pain
• Fever or chills, especially if the infection has spread to the kidneys
• Pain in the lower back or sides
• Blood-tinged urine (in more severe cases)

If these symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly, as untreated infections can lead to more serious complications.

Tests Used to Detect Pus Cells and Their Causes

Detecting pus cells in urine typically begins with a routine urine test, but additional tests may be recommended to identify the exact cause and severity of the condition.

Key diagnostic tests include:

• Urine Routine Examination (Urine R/M): Checks for the presence of pus cells, red blood cells, bacteria, and crystals under a microscope.
• Urine Culture and Sensitivity Test: Identifies the type of bacteria causing infection and helps choose the most effective antibiotic.
• Complete Blood Count (CBC): Evaluates white blood cell levels, which may be elevated during infections.
• C-Reactive Protein (CRP): Measures inflammation in the body and can support diagnosis when infection is suspected.
• Kidney Function Tests: Assesses how well the kidneys are working, especially if symptoms suggest an upper urinary tract infection.

These tests help doctors determine whether the issue is a mild infection, a more serious kidney problem, or something else entirely.

Treatment and Ways to Reduce Pus Cells in Urine

Treatment for high pus cells in urine focuses on addressing the underlying cause—most often a bacterial infection or inflammation in the urinary tract. With timely care, symptoms typically improve within a few days.

Common treatment approaches include:

• Antibiotics: Prescribed based on urine culture results to eliminate the infection. It's important to complete the full course, even if symptoms subside early.
• Increased fluid intake: Drinking plenty of water helps flush out bacteria and supports urinary tract health.
• Pain relief: Mild painkillers may be recommended to ease discomfort during urination or abdominal pain.
• Management of underlying conditions: Conditions like kidney stones, diabetes, or STIs may require specific treatment to prevent recurrence.
• Personal hygiene: Improving genital hygiene can reduce the risk of recurring infections, particularly in females.
• Avoiding irritants: Limiting caffeine, alcohol, and perfumed hygiene products can help reduce bladder irritation.

How MaxAtHome Can Help

Managing urinary health doesn’t always require a trip to the lab. With MaxAtHome, individuals can access convenient and reliable care from the comfort of home. Whether dealing with recurring infections or unexplained urinary symptoms, timely testing and expert consultation are just a call away. MaxAtHome offers:

• Home urine sample collection, carried out by trained professionals following strict hygiene protocols
• Lab-analysed reports from NABL-accredited facilities, ensuring accuracy and confidentiality
• Doctor consultations at home or online to help interpret results and recommend treatment
• Supportive blood tests such as CBC, CRP, and kidney function tests available through doorstep services
• Fast digital report delivery via email or WhatsApp for easy access and follow-up

To book a urine test or speak with a specialist, call 0124-478-1023 or schedule the test online through our easy-to-use booking platform.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are pus cells in urine?

Pus cells in urine are white blood cells that appear when there’s an infection or inflammation in the urinary tract. Their presence indicates that the immune system is responding to a possible problem, such as a bacterial infection.

What is the normal range of pus cells in urine?

The pus cells in urine normal range is usually 0 to 5 cells per high-power field (HPF) in a properly collected sample. Values above this range may indicate a urinary tract infection or other health concern and should be reviewed by a healthcare professional.

What is the meaning of pus cells in urine?

Pus cells in urine typically signal that the body is fighting off an infection or irritation in the urinary system. It may be linked to conditions like urinary tract infections, kidney infections, or other underlying disorders.

What is the treatment for pus cells in urine?

Treatment usually involves antibiotics to treat the infection, increased water intake, and managing any contributing health conditions. In some cases, further testing or long-term care may be needed to prevent recurrence.

What does high pus cells in urine indicate?

A high count of pus cells in urine often points to an infection such as a UTI or kidney inflammation. It can also be related to STIs, poor hygiene, or urinary obstruction from stones.

How to reduce pus cells in urine effectively?

To reduce pus cells, complete the full course of prescribed antibiotics, stay well-hydrated, practise proper hygiene, and treat any related conditions like diabetes or kidney stones.

What does it mean if white blood cells are found in urine?

White blood cells in urine, also called pyuria, suggest the immune system is responding to an infection or inflammation in the urinary tract, kidneys, or bladder.

What are the common symptoms of pus cells in urine?

Typical symptoms include burning during urination, frequent urges to urinate, cloudy or foul-smelling urine, lower abdominal pain, and sometimes fever.

What are the main causes of pyuria?

Pyuria, or the presence of pus cells in urine, can be caused by UTIs, kidney infections, bladder inflammation, STIs, and rarely, conditions like tuberculosis of the urinary tract.

What causes pus cells to appear in urine?

Common causes include bacterial infections, kidney stones, poor hygiene, catheter use, and chronic conditions like diabetes or urinary blockages.

What does a high white blood cell (WBC) count in urine mean?

A high WBC count in urine indicates the body is actively fighting off an infection or inflammation in the urinary tract or kidneys.

What is the normal range of pus cells in urine for females?

For females, 0–5 pus cells per high-power field (HPF) is generally considered normal. Slightly higher counts may occasionally occur due to contamination but should be retested if persistent.

What is the normal range of pus cells in urine for males?

In males, the normal range is also 0–5 pus cells per HPF. Anything above that may require further investigation to rule out infection or other issues.