Studies of Urobilinogen. VI.: Further Experience with the Simple Quantitative Ehrlich Reaction. Corrected Calibration of the Evelyn Colorimeter with a Pontacyl Dye Mixture in Terms of Urobilinogen

Abstract

A corrected calibration is given of the Evelyn photoelectric colorimeter with a Pontacyl dye mixture in terms of urobilinogen. In simple p.m. urine Ehrlich detn. the pure, saturated Na acetate soln. should be added immediately after a thorough mixing of the urine with Ehrlich''s reagent. A high 24 hr. urine urobilinogen excretion is generally associated with an increase in Ehrlich intensity of the 2-4 p.m. urine sample. The Ehrlich reaction has proved of much value as a screening method and for frequent serial usage in some cases of liver disease. The 24-hr. urobilinogen detn. involving the petroleum ether extraction is recommended where liver disease or injury is suspected, and where the quantitative Ehrlich reactions on two 2-4 p.m. samples have been normal; also in urines containing large amts. of either albumin or bili-rubin. The Ehrlich detn. on random. samples of feces is of considerable value in quickly establishing the presence of excessive hemolysis.