What is the primary role of leukocyte esterase in urine analysis?

Leukocyte esterase is an important enzyme that serves as a marker for the presence of white blood cells (leukocytes) in urine. The detection of leukocyte esterase during urine analysis is primarily associated with identifying bacterial infections, particularly urinary tract infections (UTIs). When inflammation or infection occurs in the urinary tract, the number of leukocytes increases, and their enzymatic activity can be measured through urine.

The presence of leukocyte esterase indicates that there is likely an immune response to an infection, as white blood cells are recruited to combat pathogens. Specifically, when present in urine, leukocyte esterase can confirm the suspicion of a UTI when coupled with other tests, such as the presence of nitrites or bacteria.

Thus, the role of leukocyte esterase is closely tied to detecting bacterial infections in the urinary system, making it a crucial component of urinary analysis focused on diagnosing infections.