Urine

Nitrites in urine

Nitrites in the urine form when certain bacteria convert natural nitrates into nitrites. Their presence is a fairly specific sign of a bacterial urinary tract infection.

Ranges we useEFLM

This marker is reported as negative or positive on the strip; the app rates it qualitatively, not against a numeric range.

Why it matters

ECLM: positive indicates a bacterial urinary tract infection.

If it’s low

Negative nitrites do not completely rule out infection (some bacteria do not produce them, or the urine was not in the bladder long enough).

If it’s high

Positive nitrites indicate a bacterial urinary tract infection — especially with symptoms and leukocytes in the urine.

What to do

Positive nitrites with symptoms → likely infection, consultation. For assessment a morning, concentrated sample is best (nitrites need time in the bladder).

Read together with

White blood cells in urine · Red blood cells in urine

This content is for information only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Talk to your doctor about your results.

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