Addis count

Addis count is a medical test used to measure the number of red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), and casts present in urine. Named after the British physician Thomas Addis, the test is primarily used in the diagnosis and management of kidney disease.

History

The Addis count was developed by Thomas Addis, a pioneer in the field of nephrology. Addis was a strong advocate for non-invasive diagnostic methods, and his test was one of the first to provide detailed information about kidney function without the need for surgery or other invasive procedures.

Procedure

The Addis count is performed on a 12-hour urine sample. The patient is instructed to void at the start of the period, discard this specimen, and then collect all urine produced over the next 12 hours. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.

In the lab, the urine is mixed and a small amount is placed on a slide. The slide is examined under a microscope, and the number of RBCs, WBCs, and casts are counted. The results are usually reported as the number of cells or casts per milliliter of urine.

Interpretation

The Addis count can provide valuable information about the health of the kidneys. An increased number of RBCs may indicate glomerulonephritis or other forms of kidney disease. An increased number of WBCs may suggest a urinary tract infection or pyelonephritis. The presence of casts, which are clumps of protein or cells, can also indicate kidney disease.

Limitations

While the Addis count can provide valuable information, it is not without limitations. The test requires a 12-hour urine collection, which can be inconvenient for the patient. In addition, the results can be influenced by factors such as hydration status and physical activity.

See also

• Urinalysis
• Kidney disease
• Thomas Addis