Valutazione comparativa dell’analisi biochimica e microbiologica dell’urina raccolta convenzionalmente e con un nuovo metodo

Although urinary tract infection (UTI) is common in childhood, it continues to be underdiagnosed, despite its association with renal failure (if the infection is not treated promptly, bacteria may then go up the ureters to infect the kidneys: pyelonephritis).This is partly due to the fact that urine samples are often difficult to obtain. A new infant urine collection kit (Pronturina®) is now available.This consists of an absorbent panty-liner which is placed inside the nappy. Once wet it is removed and inserted into the syringe provided. The urine is then squeezed into the tube used to take the specimen to the doctor’s surgery. Tests have been carried out to prove that this new method for urine collection does not change the diagnostically valuable markers or bacterial culture parameters associated with conventional chemical and microbiological urine analysis.The specimens can be tested and examined up to six hours after collection.When microscopic sediment examination and culture are considered necessary, as follow-up to leukocyte esterase and nitrate examination, specimens are sent to the laboratory.A tablet-form stabilizing agent can be added to the sample in order to obtain a urinalysis delay time of 1 day at room temperature. Comparative results showed no significant differences between the various methods of collection and preservation. This easy new method is particularly suitable for urine collection in infants and could change the approach to UTI diagnosis.