Validation of accuracy of red blood cell information from UF-1000i, an automated urine testing instrument: Usefulness of such information in microscopy examination and clinical diagnosis

Abstract

It is very important for the screening for urinary tract diseases to examine urine samples microscopically. Particularly in patients with hematuria, close observation of the size and shape of erythrocytes is important in distinguishing the glomerular origin from other origins, such as those of the lower urinary tract. In this study, we investigated the accuracy of information on RBCs, including those of the “dysmorphic type”, “isomorphic type”, and “mixed type”, from the UF-1000i (Sysmex), which is an automated apparatus for the testing of urine, and the usefulness of RBC information in the final clinical diagnosis in 631 urine samples. Glomerular-type RBCs examined by clinical laboratory technologists by microscopy examination were found in 49.1% of the dysmorphic type, 39.3% of the mixed type, and 1.2% of the isomorphic type. Clinically diagnosed glomerular diseases were found in 30.7% of the dysmorphic type, 12.1% of the mixed type, and 3.9% of the isomorphic type. Dysmorphic-type RBC is a good supportive marker for distinguishing glomerular disease from other lower urinary tract diseases.