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![]() A monochromatic light is led to the drop and the specific gravity can be measured depending on the angle of refraction of the light. Refractometer: Only a drop of urine is needed.With a calibrated scale the specific gravity can be read depending on how much the test tube float in the distilled water. Normal range/expected value(s) for a specific disease state. Urinometer: A test tube is filled with 10 or 20 ml of urine and then is placed in distilled water at 68-72✯ (20-22ªC). Lab Test Directory Osmolality, Urine Osmolality, Urine.Specific gravity may be also measured at labs with other procedures. ![]() They comprise up to 10 or more different reagents or chemical pads to perform different urine tests at the same time. In laboratories, there are automated machines that perform the analysis very fast, but it is also possible to buy strips that let you analyze a urine sample at home. It reacts (change color) when it is dipped into the urine specimen. The dipstick may comprise a reagent or chemical pad. The urine gravity test is measured frequently using reagent strips or dipsticks. This sample will be sent to the lab for the analysis. The patient must collect a sample of the urine in a specific container using a special kit. In contrast to other studies, this study found that some refractometers could be used interchangeably and do not appear to have clinically relevant variation and users of variable clinical training could accurately interpret refractometer results with limited training.This test is performed along with other urine tests in what is called a urinalysis. In addition, correlation among users was exceptional. Minimal variation of the other refractometers was not clinically relevant. Similar to an earlier study, 2 this study showed excellent correlation among refractometers, although one showed constant and proportional biases. In this study, the authors evaluated results from 4 different refractometers and evaluated the variability among different users performing USG measurements. Fixed specific gravity, in which values remain 1.010 regardless of fluid intake, occurs in chronic glomerulonephritis with severe renal damage. These studies collectively suggest that comparing results among refractometers could present some clinical challenges. 3 A second study compared USG measured on canine urine obtained via 4 refractometers with results of measured osmolality 2 refractometers included 2 optical and 1 digital refractometer, and 3 of 4 were found to be comparable. 2,3 One study compared 5 different refractometers (including 1 digital and 2 feline-specific) and found proportional negative bias among them. ![]() 2 All refractometers are not necessarily equal, and there have been studies to evaluate their reliability. However, it is impractical to measure urine osmolality in clinical practice, and use of a refractometer to measure USG has been shown to be comparable with measurement of osmolality. Urine concentration is measured by determining the freezing point of the urine, which decreases with increasing solute in the urine. Urine osmolality is considered the gold standard for determining the concentration of the urine. 1 USG is used in combination with physical examination findings and serum chemistry profile values in the diagnosis of renal disease. Urine specific gravity (USG) is a critical component of urinalysis and minimum database it allows for assessment of the ability of renal tubules to dilute or concentrate glomerular filtrate. Urinalysis is a valuable diagnostic tool that consists of a combination of diagnostic tests, including gross evaluation of urine, urine chemistry, sediment examination, and specific gravity.
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