Why Urinalysis Reagent Test Strips Have Become An Important Diagnostic Tool

By Stacey Burt


Although they may seem like another technological wonder of the digital age, the small sticks or ribbons made of paper or plastic used to reveal abnormal changes in body chemistry originated over one hundred years ago. As early as the 1880s pharmacists and medical personnel began searching for new analytic methods superior to the cumbersome processes available at the time. The earliest types of urinalysis reagent test strips appeared in 1883, and revolutionized testing and diagnostics.

A century of development and practical field use has made them integral in detecting abnormal kidney output. They are used to measure the progress and scope of diabetes mellitus, an epidemic today due to current dietary preferences and inactive lifestyles. Other liver and blood indicators of disease are commonly revealed using this process, and detecting urinary tract infections has become quick and simple.

Most contain filter pads and layers held together without result-distorting glues. They are specifically engineered to avoid errors caused by excess physical exercise that sometimes leaves trace amounts of blood in the urine, as well as the presence of unusual amounts of ingested ascorbic acid, or Vitamin C. Special materials and non-reactive protections guarantee high accuracy.

Each pad specifically identifies a particular metabolic product. They can also detect the presence of blood, measure pH levels, and produce evidence of potentially harmful substances such as ketones, leukocytes, glucose, nitrites, and others chemicals. While these substances can also be measured using standard urine tests, strips offer advantages to patients, laboratory personnel, and physicians.

They produce highly accurate results within one minute, in the form of specific color displays. Strips are designed for use upside down in order to prevent hand contact, a feature especially useful for technicians. Specific colors representing individual chemicals can be easily compared to the fade-resistant tones printed on the packaging vials. Color development is uniform and even.

In addition to being fast and accurate, the process is also cost-effective. Its main purpose is not to make a specific diagnosis, but rather to see which metabolic indicators of trouble appear, and whether or not they indicate disease. For full confirmation, testing must followed by an examination. If a doctor requests individual monitoring at home, patients appreciate the small size and simple instructions.

Under the direction of a doctor, high-risk patients with diabetes can self-monitor levels of ketones and glucose, both indicators of metabolic changes. Those who suffer from hypertension and possible kidney damage use reagents to check daily function. Recurring urinary tract infections can also be self-detected early, and preventive use has become a widespread phenomenon.

Although test kits are sold in most pharmacies, there is the potential danger that specific results can be misinterpreted by patients, causing some to assume they have a condition or diseases that is not actually present, and sometimes leading to unnecessary emotional stress. If a test produces questionable results, the next step is to see a physician who will be able to present a more complete diagnosis.




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