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Two simple methods for measuring iodine in urine
J T Dunn1, H E Crutchfield, R Gutekunst
1Department of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville.
Thyroid : Official Journal of the American Thyroid Association
|January 1, 1993
Summary
New methods for measuring urinary iodine levels offer a fast, affordable way to assess iodine deficiency. These simple techniques are ideal for large-scale studies in developing nations.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Clinical Chemistry
- Public Health
Background:
- Urinary iodine excretion is a key indicator of iodine status.
- International efforts to address iodine deficiency require efficient assessment tools.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate rapid, cost-effective methods for measuring urinary iodine.
- To adapt the Sandell-Kolthoff reaction for routine iodine assessment.
Main Methods:
- Two adaptations of the Sandell-Kolthoff reaction were developed using chloric acid digestion.
- Method A utilized a colorimeter, while Method B employed ferroin and a stopwatch.
- Urine samples were analyzed for iodine concentration via catalytic reduction.
Main Results:
- The developed methods showed good agreement with a reference laboratory (9.1% and 15.7% difference).
- Each method is capable of processing at least 150 tests daily per technician.
- The cost per test is less than $0.50.
Conclusions:
- The described methods are rapid, simple, and economical for assessing iodine deficiency.
- These techniques are suitable for widespread epidemiological studies, particularly in resource-limited settings.
- The adaptations facilitate monitoring and intervention for iodine deficiency disorders.