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Rapid screening for significant bacteriuria using a Coulter Counter
Journal of Clinical Pathology
|December 1, 1977
Summary
A Coulter Counter accurately detected significant bacteriuria in 92.4% of urine samples. This rapid particle counting method offers a quick and effective alternative to traditional urine cultures for diagnosing infections.
Area of Science:
- Clinical microbiology
- Diagnostic technology
Background:
- Significant bacteriuria often indicates urinary tract infections.
- Traditional urine culture methods are time-consuming.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the Coulter Counter for detecting significant bacteriuria.
- To assess the speed and accuracy of particle counting for bacterial detection.
Main Methods:
- Urine specimens were analyzed using a Coulter Counter for particle counts.
- Results were compared against standard urine culture procedures.
Main Results:
- The Coulter Counter showed 92.4% agreement with standard cultures (883/956 specimens).
- Particle counts provided a semiquantitative estimate of bacterial load in infected samples.
- Minimal sample preparation was required, with results available in 2-4 minutes.
Conclusions:
- The Coulter Counter is a viable tool for rapid detection of significant bacteriuria.
- This method offers a faster diagnostic alternative for urinary tract infections.