Leukocyte esterase

Its activity occurs at the level of the proteins of the connective matrix, which the enzyme is able to degrade, contributing to the destruction of bacteria and foreign cells.
If large amounts of leukocyte esterase are found in the urine, it means that there are high concentrations of leukocytes in the urine; this indicates a probable urinary tract infection.

The esterase has the function of degrading the proteins that support the connective matrix.

Leukocyte esterase is strongly related to the presence of white blood cells (leukocytes) in the urine.
This analysis is especially useful when it is necessary to distinguish between asymptomatic bacteriuria and a urinary tract infection (UTI).