leucocytes in urine

[mandyjane46]

I had decompression surgery in Nov 08 for spinal compression caused by a T10_T11 and T11- T12 prolapses .I now have  a mild amount of myelomalacia. I have residual weaknesses in right leg,feacal impaction and strange issues with my bladder.I have permanent leucocytes in my urine, tingling/pins and needles in my vulva and the strange ability to be unaware of a full bladder until its really full and then I cant hold it. I have hd repeated tests for infections which are always negative but I still have leucocytes in urine (I test at home) with burning in the perineal area.I am embarassed to keep going back to my GP.Do I need to worry?

[David A Burks, MD]

HI,  
You may very well have a nerve related problem with your bladder.  Nerves go from your brain down the spinal cord and out to your bladder, rectum, vulva and legs.  When you have a spinal compresssion the nerves to your pelvis and legs are affected. After the decompression surgery the nerves may or may not return to normal function.  You have residual weakness and sensations consistent with at least a partial nerve disfunction/irritation from the spine problem. This problem can cause loss of sensation in the bladder during filling and difficulty emptying that can set up infections and persistent leukocytes in the urine.  You need to see a Urologist who can do a bladder filling and emptying test to evaluate your bladder sensation, capacity and ability to empty.  The burning in the vulva and perineum is probably nerve related and your neurosurgeon can order tests (EMG) to evaluate ongoing nerve problems post op if necessary. Retention of urine is the #1 problem to rule out ASAP.  Good Luck.