What should be done if there is a high level of epithelial cells in the urine routine examination

High epithelial cells in urine routine examination usually indicate the possibility of an increase in shed epithelial cells in the urinary system. Most cases are due to physiological reasons or mild inflammation, but pathological factors cannot be ruled out. It can be treated by adjusting lifestyle habits, increasing drinking water, and seeking medical treatment if necessary. High epithelial cell count is usually caused by contamination of urine samples, urinary system infections, stone irritation, drug effects, kidney disease, and other reasons.

1. Urine sample contamination:

Failure to use midstream urine or unclean containers when collecting urine may cause epithelial cells from the vagina or urethral opening to mix into the sample, resulting in higher results. This situation usually does not require special treatment, and it is recommended to have a clean midstream urine sample taken again for follow-up examination. Before collecting specimens, the perineum should be cleaned to avoid urinary retention during menstruation, and sterile containers provided by the hospital should be used.

2. Urinary tract infections:

Infections such as urethritis and cystitis can cause an increase in the shedding of urinary epithelial cells, usually manifested as symptoms such as frequent urination, urgency, and pain during urination. In terms of treatment, it is recommended to follow the doctor's advice and use antibiotics such as cefuroxime capsules, levofloxacin tablets, and furantoin enteric coated tablets. At the same time, drink plenty of water to flush the urethra, and it is recommended to maintain a daily water intake of at least 2000 milliliters.

3. Urinary system stones:

Kidney stones, ureteral stones, or bladder stones may cause frictional damage to the urinary tract epithelium during movement, leading to epithelial cell shedding and often accompanied by lower back and abdominal pain or hematuria. Treatment should be selected based on the size and location of the stones. Smaller stones can be eliminated by drinking plenty of water and exercising appropriately, while larger stones may require interventions such as extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy or ureteroscopy.

4. Drug effects:

Certain drugs such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, chemotherapy drugs, or antibiotics may stimulate the urinary system and cause epithelial cell shedding. This situation usually improves after stopping or adjusting medication. It is recommended to communicate with a doctor in a timely manner to assess whether medication needs to be changed or dosage adjusted. Do not stop medication on your own.

5. Renal diseases:

Renal diseases such as tubulointerstitial nephritis and pyelonephritis may cause the detachment of renal tubular epithelial cells into the urine, often accompanied by symptoms such as proteinuria, edema, and hypertension. Treatment should be targeted at the primary disease, such as using glucocorticoids such as prednisone acetate tablets, immunosuppressants such as cyclophosphamide tablets, while controlling blood pressure and reducing protein intake. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary.

Daily attention should be paid to maintaining personal hygiene, avoiding holding urine, drinking sufficient water daily, and reducing the intake of spicy and irritating foods. If the epithelial cells continue to be elevated or accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, lower back pain, and abnormal urination after re examination, it is necessary to seek medical attention promptly at the nephrology or urology department, and complete examinations such as urine culture and urinary system ultrasound to determine the cause.