AboutSamantha, MLT (ASCP) Expertise I can answer most general questions about all aspects of laboratory testing. But I'm not a doctor! I can just give general answers.
Experience I have been the chemistry supervisor at the hopsital where I work for 11 years. I am an MLT (ASCP)which means I am board certified.
Education/Credentials Associate's Degree, Medical Lab Technician, 1997.
Question had recent urine test, most results were negative, but two I didn't understand- Leukocyte Esterase, said "small" and hemoglobin said "trace" what does each of those mean? UTI or something else?
Answer Hi Cheryl, I'd be glad to try and answer your question. Leukocyte esterase is essentially white blood cells. White blood cells in your urine could indicate an infection, but since your amount was "small", then it could be possibly just skin contamination. Hemoglobin is blood in your urine. And since it was "trace" that is only a very small amount, and that can also be from an infection. Do you have any symptoms? Was the urine specimen you collected a clean-catch, midstream sample? (Meaning, did you clean off your genital area first before collecting the "midstream" part of your urine?) If not, then your doctor may want to order another urine test, making sure you collect a clean-catch midstream sample.
Samantha
**This answer is not a substitute for professional medical advice.**
