[Topographic diagnosis of urinary infection by determination of fraction 5 of lactate dehydrogenase].

Amongst the various methods suggested for the topographical diagnosis of urinary tract infection, the study of various fractions of lactico-dehydrogenase in the urine would appear to be particularly valuable. Study of 44 subjects with a significant urinary infection, compared with an identical group of subjects free of urinary infection, showed that in those with pyelonephritis fraction 5 was significantly (p less than 0.001) higher than in those with a lower urinary tract infection. However this was valid only in the absence of renal insufficiency. Combined study of immunological techniques (urinary antibodies revealed by immunofluorescence and serum antibodies) shows that these techniques are complementary and make it possible to exactly localise the site of a urinary tract infection. In relation to immunology, enzymology has the advantage of being suitable for use during periods at which bacteriological examination of the urine is negative, and hence is useful in following the influence of treatment.