leukocitaészteráz

Leukocyte esterase, also known as leukocyte esterase activity (LEA) or L-esterase, is an enzyme commonly found in human white blood cells, particularly neutrophils. It plays a role in various cellular processes and is often detected in biological samples as an indicator of inflammation or infection.

The presence of leukocyte esterase in urine is a significant finding during urinalysis. When white blood cells, or leukocytes, are present in the urine, often due to a urinary tract infection (UTI) or other inflammatory conditions in the urinary tract, their cellular contents, including leukocyte esterase, are released. A dipstick test for urinalysis can detect the presence of this enzyme by reacting with a specific chemical reagent that changes color in its presence. A positive result, indicated by a color change, suggests the presence of leukocytes in the urine, which can be an early sign of a UTI.

Beyond urinalysis, leukocyte esterase can also be detected in other bodily fluids, such as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) or synovial fluid. Its detection in CSF may indicate meningitis or other central nervous system infections. In synovial fluid, elevated levels can suggest joint inflammation, such as in cases of septic arthritis. The enzyme's presence is not specific to a particular type of inflammation or infection but serves as a general marker for the presence of leukocytes and an ongoing inflammatory response.