Rapid miniaturized tests for bacteriuria: Microstix and bacturcult urine tests

Of 4 methods for testing random urine samples for the presence of infection the standard hospital laboratory culture-colony counting was found by far to be the most accurate. Microscopy of urinary sediment, Microstix and Bacturcult produced too many falsely negative results to be useful in a clinical setting, were urine samples were collected throughout the day such as in an office or hospital outpatient clinic. Perhaps the last 2 tests would yield better results if urine samples were collected after at least 4 hours of incubation time in the bladder, as suggested by their proponents.