Estimation of Urine Specific Gravity and Osmolality Using a Simple Reagent Strip

MISCELLANEOUS revealed Staphylococcus aureus. The boy responded also to supportive measures and appropriate antibiotics. The authors conclude with the admonition that with the apparent decline in tampon-associated cases toxic shock syndrome may again become an obscure, rare entity. They present this study to remind physicians to consider the disease in any patient with a sudden onset of fever, shock, diarrhea, rash and evidence of multisystem illness. Mild forms of toxic shock syndrome may exist although these patients tend to degenerate physically and profound shock develops rapidly. It is for this reason that identification and careful monitoring are essential. Vigorous support of the intravascular volume and cardiac output seem, at present, to be the mainstays of therapy. W. W.H. 9 references

Estimation of Urine Specific Gravity and Osmolality Using a Simple Reagent Strip A. J. FREW, J. MCEWAN, G. BELL, M. HEATH AND M. s. KNAPP, Renal Unit and Department of Clinical Chemistry, City Hospital, Nottingham, England

Brit. Med. J., 285: 1168 (Oct. 23) 1982

A new strip test has been developed that uses the pKa of pre-treated polyelectrolytes relative to the concentration of cations in the urine to estimate the urine specific gravity and osmolality. This strip test was compared to urine specific gravity measured by hydrometry and refractometry, and osmolality by freezing-point depression.

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There were satisfactory correlations between the strip test and urine specific gravity measured by hydrometer for all groups except for diabetics with 2 per cent glycosuria. Measurements of refractometry and osmolality also correlated well for all groups. The authors conclude that this test is quick and simple to use, requires only a small volume of urine and, thus, represents an improvement over traditional methods of measuring urinary concentration. D.K.M. 1 table, 3 references

Academic Pitfalls in America-1907-1982 J. E. RHOADS, School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia J. Surg. Oncol., 21: 74-80 (Oct.) 1982 In this lecture the author recounts his distinguished career in academic surgery and makes observations regarding pitfalls others should avoid while climbing the academic ladder. His catalogue of 15 pitfalls covers a wide range of potential problems. The importance of having the right kind of spouse is stressed in that 4 of the pitfalls include spouse-related areas. A summary of this address would be a disservice and the interested reader is directed to enjoy the admonitions in their entirety. G.F.S. 1 figure, 15 references