Epithelial Cells in Urine Details
Explore the details about epithelial cells in urine, including their types, possible causes, and associated symptoms. Learn how they are diagnosed, ways to manage or reduce their presence, and when it’s important to consult a doctor.
Introduction
Finding out that your urine test shows epithelial cells can be confusing and even a little worrying. But don’t panic! In most cases, a small number of these cells in your urine is normal. However, if the count is high, it could indicate an underlying issue that needs attention.
This article will help you understand what epithelial cells are, why they appear in urine, when it’s a cause for concern, and what steps you can take to maintain good urinary health.
What Are Epithelial Cells?
Epithelial cells are a type of cell that line the surfaces of your body, including your skin, blood vessels, and organs like the bladder, kidneys, and urinary tract. Their main job is to protect tissues and help with absorption and secretion.
When you take a urine test (urinalysis), a lab checks for different substances, including epithelial cells. Finding a few of these cells is normal because your body naturally sheds them. However, a higher-than-normal count may suggest irritation, infection, or other conditions affecting your urinary system.
Types of Epithelial Cells Found in Urine
There are three main types of epithelial cells that may appear in urine:
1. Squamous Epithelial Cells – These come from the urethra or the outer genital area. A few squamous cells are common, especially in women, due to contamination from vaginal secretions.
2. Transitional Epithelial Cells – These line the bladder, ureters, and part of the urethra. Their presence may indicate a urinary tract infection (UTI) or bladder irritation.
3. Renal Tubular Epithelial Cells – These come from the kidneys. If found in urine, they could signal kidney damage or disease.
What Causes High Epithelial Cells in Urine?
Several factors can lead to an increased number of epithelial cells in urine:
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) – Bacteria in the urinary tract can cause inflammation, leading to more cells shedding into urine.
Kidney Disease or Damage – Conditions like kidney infections, glomerulonephritis, or chronic kidney disease may increase renal epithelial cells.
Bladder Infections or Irritation – Conditions like cystitis (bladder inflammation) or bladder stones can cause more transitional cells to appear.
Contamination – Improper urine sample collection (especially in women) can introduce squamous cells from the genital area.
Certain Medications – Some drugs may irritate the urinary tract, increasing cell shedding.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) – Infections like chlamydia or gonorrhea can cause epithelial cells to appear in urine.
Diabetes or High Blood Pressure – These conditions can affect kidney function, leading to more cells in urine.
Symptoms to Watch For
If your urine test shows high epithelial cells, you may or may not have symptoms. However, if an underlying condition is present, you might experience:
Pain or burning during urination
Frequent urge to urinate
Cloudy, foul-smelling, or bloody urine
Lower abdominal or back pain
Fever or chills (if infection is present)
Swelling in the legs or face (if kidney-related)
If you notice any of these symptoms along with high epithelial cells in your urine, it’s best to consult a doctor for further evaluation.
How Is It Diagnosed?
A urinalysis is the first step in detecting epithelial cells. If your results show a high count, your doctor may recommend:
Repeat Urine Test – To rule out contamination or temporary irritation.
Urine Culture – Checks for bacterial infections like UTIs.
Blood Tests – Assess kidney function (e.g., creatinine, BUN levels).
Imaging Tests – Ultrasound or CT scan to check for kidney or bladder abnormalities.
Cystoscopy – A thin tube with a camera examines the bladder (if needed).
How to Manage or Reduce Epithelial Cells in Urine
If your high epithelial cell count is due to an infection or another treatable condition, your doctor will guide you on the right treatment. Here are some general tips to maintain good urinary health:
1. Stay Hydrated
Drinking enough water helps flush out bacteria and toxins from your urinary system. Aim for 6-8 glasses a day, unless your doctor advises otherwise.
2. Maintain Proper Hygiene
Wipe from front to back after using the toilet to prevent bacterial spread.
Urinate after intercourse to reduce UTI risk.
3. Eat a Balanced Diet
Cranberry juice may help prevent UTIs (but avoid it if you have kidney stones).
Reduce salt, processed foods, and sugary drinks to support kidney health.
Include probiotics (yoghurt, kefir) to promote good bacteria.
4. Avoid Irritants
Limit caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods if you have bladder irritation.
Quit smoking, as it can worsen kidney and bladder health.
5. Follow Medical Advice
If prescribed antibiotics for a UTI, complete the full course.
Manage chronic conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure to protect your kidneys.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Consult a healthcare provider if:
Your urine test consistently shows high epithelial cells.
You experience pain, frequent urination, or blood in urine.
You have a history of kidney disease or recurrent UTIs.
Early detection and treatment can prevent complications, so don’t ignore persistent symptoms.
Final Thoughts
Finding epithelial cells in your urine isn’t always a cause for alarm; many times, it’s just a normal finding. However, if the count is high or you have symptoms, it’s important to get checked. Simple lifestyle changes, proper hydration, and timely medical care can keep your urinary system healthy.
Consult a Top Urologist for the best advice
Consult a Top Urologist for the best advice
Dr S K Singhanina
Urologist
25 Years • MBBS/MS/DNB AND MCH UROLOGY
Guwahati
Apollo Clinic Guwahati, Assam, Guwahati
Dr. Sandeep Maheswara Reddy Kallam
Urologist
6 Years • MBBS, MS (General Surgery), M Ch (Genito-Urinary Surgery), Post Doctoral Fellowship in Uro-Surgical Oncology
Visakhapatnam
Dr. SANDEEP MAHESWARA REDDY K _- best Urologist in visakhapatnam, Visakhapatnam
(250+ Patients)
Dr. Sudhakar G V
Urologist
25 Years • MBBS, MS(Gen.Surgery), DNB Urology
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr. Pavan Kumar S K
Urologist
11 Years • MBBS, MS , Mch( Urology) DNB (Urology)
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr. Prabir Basu
Urologist
19 Years • MBBS, MS General Surgery, DNB Genito-Urinary Surgery
Jodhpur Park
Dr. Prabir Basu urology clinic, Jodhpur Park
(150+ Patients)
