Abstract: New and substantially improved methods for the detection of bacteria, bacterial fragments and/or bacterial antigens are described. Novel methods for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, "essential" hypertension and a variety of diseases found to be associated with bacteriuria are also described. Additionally, the specification discloses that the new and improved methods for direct microscopic examination are advantageously used for examination of formed elements in samples of other body fluids.

Abstract: A novel method of urine specimen preparation comprising intense centrifugation and a lipid wash mitigates or prevents loss of bacteria-containing sediment prior to examination. Modifications of the method facilitate examination of urines with interfering constituents such as glucose, phosphates, and soluble and insoluble proteins. By this method, bacteria have been found in the urine of patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis and essential hypertension. These bacteria were not detected in standard urine preparations. Administration of antibiotic agents effective against the bacteria detected, such as clindamycin, destroyed these bacteria and provided therapeutic relief.