Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Parameters Tested in Urinalysis
3. Interpretation of Results
4. Company Solutions
5. References

Introduction

Reagent strips are a common tool used in urinalysis to provide a quick and efficient method of measuring various analytes in urine. These dipsticks are essential in routine diagnostics, enabling healthcare professionals to detect and monitor a wide range of medical conditions.

Parameters Tested in Urinalysis

pH

pH range: 4.6 to 8.0. The pH level is crucial for detecting metabolic or respiratory acidosis and alkalosis, as well as certain infections.

Protein

Protein concentration: Negative to ≥300 mg/dL. Proteinuria could indicate renal disease, preeclampsia, or other serious conditions.

Glucose

Glucose concentration: Negative to ≥1000 mg/dL. Glycosuria can be a sign of diabetes mellitus or other endocrine disorders.

Ketones

Ketone concentration: Negative to ≥160 mg/dL. High ketone levels signal diabetic ketoacidosis or starvation ketosis.

Bilirubin

Bilirubin levels: Negative to diagnosed bilirubinuria. Elevated bilirubin levels could suggest liver dysfunction or biliary obstruction.

Blood

Hematuria detection: Negative to strong positive. Presence of blood may indicate infections, stones, or other urological disorders.

Urobilinogen

Urobilinogen concentration: 0.1 to 1.0 mg/dL. Change in levels can point to liver diseases or hemolytic disorders.

Nitrites

Nitrite test: Negative to strong positive. Positive results suggest bacterial infection, particularly by Gram-negative organisms.

Leukocyte Esterase

Leukocyte esterase detection: Negative to positive. Indicates white blood cells in urine, often due to infections.

Specific Gravity

Specific gravity range: 1.005 to 1.030. Assesses kidney's concentrating and diluting capacity; helps in diagnosing renal pathologies.

Interpretation of Results

Interpreting urine reagent strip results involves considering both the individual tests and their implications in combination. Deviations from normal ranges must be evaluated in conjunction with patient history, physical exams, and other laboratory results for accurate diagnosis.

Company Solutions

Roche Diagnostics

Roche offers Combur-Test strips, which provide a reliable and convenient method for urinalysis. Their strips are known for high accuracy and resistance to interference.

Siemens Healthineers

Multistix urinalysis strips from Siemens are widely used in both clinical and laboratory settings, known for their compliance with international standards and precision.

Abbott Laboratories

Abbott's Urisys line enhances diagnostic capabilities with advanced reagent strip technology, allowing health professionals to make well-informed decisions.

References

1. Siemens Healthineers. (2023). Multistix 10 SG Reagent Strips.
2. Roche Diagnostics. (2023). Combur-Test - Accurate Urine Testing.
3. Abbott Laboratories. (2023). Urisys Reagent Strips for Urinalysis.
4. Smith, J. (2022). Principles of Urinalysis. Journal of Clinical Pathology.
5. Johnson, L. (2022). Practical Guide to Urine Testing. Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine.