[Urine analysis in a pediatric laboratory using reagent strips read visually (visual dip sticks)].

The Authors studied the possibility of using some dip sticks visual for urinalysis. One hundred of urine samples have been analyzed at the beginning with the instrumental laboratory analytical system and then with the dip sticks visual; the results put in evidence that there is a real discrepancy as far as glucose is concerned. Glucose is overestimated in dip sticks visual method. Bilirubin, blood and proteins are in a decreasing order the most different items. Concerning to pH the results have been comparable. Specific weight cannot be compared to the laboratory method, on the other hand it can be used for screening. On the whole the Authors are quite satisfied about dip sticks visual method; it can be used in order to accelerate diagnosis and avoid pre-analytical mistakes.