Urine strips for making Diagnosis: Part 3

Urobilinogen test does provide a clue in patient with hemolytic disorders, live failure, poisoning, resolving hematoma or hepatitis. Sometimes low values may occur when there is failure to produce bile or there is an obstruction for passage of bile. A negative result does not mean there is absence of Urobilinogen. High concentrations of ascorbic acid or sulphonamides can also obscure the color and lead to a false negative test.

The nitrite test pad gives an indirect indication of presence of bacteria. When the pad goes pink it signifies a positive reaction. Abnormal nitrite values may indicate presence of a UTI (usually from gram negative bacteria). While the test is accurate in most cases, false negatives may result if there is ascorbic acid present. To confirm present of a urinary tract infection, send a specimen for bacterial culture. Excessive urination or use of diuretic drugs can often create a false negative test due to dilution. The urine test for nitrite is most accurate when antibiotics have been discontinued for at least 3 days prior to the test

Ketones in urine can readily be identified on a urine strip. Ketones are produced in the body when fat is broken down to generate energy. Ketones are generally seen in

- Diabetic ketoacidosis
- Insulin over dose
- Starvation
- Persistent nausea and vomiting
- Strict dieting
- Stress
- Infections.

When Ketones are detected in urine, the next step is to measure urine glucose. If glucose levels are low, one should immediately seek medical attention.

The urine strip is the most inexpensive method to detect white cells in the urine. While a few cells are always present in urine, more than 20 WBC/ul is considered pathological. WBC in the urine may occur from

- Urinary tract infection
- Kidney abscess
- Bladder infection
- Infected kidney stone

The intensity of the color formed is generally proportional to the number of WBC. Results of the test can be obscured by presence of oxalic acid or oxidizing agents. Other factors that affect the test include high sugar, high protein and presence of certain antibiotics like tetracyclines and cephalosporins.

The urine strip allows at least ten quick clinical measurements in an inexpensive way. The results can then be used to treat or counsel patients for further treatment. To view our urine test kit and prices, please visit www.medexsupply.com