A Renal Cortical Index Obtained from Urography Films

Abstract

A simple method for measuring and calculating a Renal Cortical Index (RCI) from urography films is presented. The RCI expresses the ratio between area of the pelvis and calyces and that of the renal parenchyma. The preliminary results (155 RCI values compared) seem to indicate that the RCI can serve as an expression of the functional ability of the kidneys or of one kidney separately. In pathological states, the RCI tends to rise. The limit value for normal and pathological RCI is probably about 0·40.