White Blood Cell (Stool)
Does this test have other names?
Stool white blood cell test, fecal leukocyte (LOO-koh-site) test
What is this test?
This test looks for white blood cells in your stool, which can help your health care provider diagnose the cause of inflammatory diarrhea.
White blood cells, also called leukocytes, are immune system cells that can show up in the stool if you have inflammatory diarrhea. This type of diarrhea may be a symptom of an infection caused by bacteria such as Shigella, Clostridium difficile, Campylobacter, or Salmonella. It may also occur in inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.
Why do I need this test?
You might have this test if you have inflammatory diarrhea. Symptoms may include:
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Numerous small loose stools
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Blood or mucus in the stool
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Severe cramping in your abdomen
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Fever
What other tests might I have along with this test?
Your doctor may order other tests that look at the stool for:
Your doctor may also order a stool culture. For this test, bacteria in a stool sample are encouraged to grow in the lab so they can be seen.
What do my test results mean?
A result for a lab test may be affected by many things, including the method the laboratory uses to do the test. If your test results are different from the normal value, you may not have a problem. To learn what the results mean for you, talk with your health care provider.
White blood cells in the stool may mean that you have inflammation in your gastrointestinal tract. But a negative result doesn't rule out a problem. Some people with these illnesses don't have white blood cells in their stool.
How is this test done?
Your health care provider will give you a special container with a tightly fitting lid to place the stool sample in. If you aren't able to produce a stool sample, your doctor may collect a sample by inserting a swab into your rectum.
What might affect my test results?
Urine or toilet paper may contamínate the sample, affecting the results. Drinking milk can affect the results.
How do I get ready for this test?
You don't need to prepare for this test, but it's a good idea to tell the health care provider about other health problems you may have. Be sure your doctor knows about all medicines, herbs, vitamins, and supplements you are taking. This includes medicines that don't need a prescription and any illicit drugs you may use.