Final answer:
The procedure described is an Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP), a diagnostic test to view the renal pelvis using a contrast dye via X-ray. It distinguishes kidney and urinary tract abnormalities and is distinct from urinalysis or a BUN test.
Step-by-step explanation:
The diagnostic procedure described in the question involves an X-ray image of the renal pelvis after the injection of a contrast dye into the bloodstream. This procedure is known as an Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP). During an IVP, a contrast dye is injected to provide a clear image of the urinary tract, including the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. This procedure helps diagnose conditions like kidney stones, tumors, or any abnormalities of the urinary tract.
An IVP is different from a routine urinalysis, which may include a visual inspection and the use of urine test strips. More extensive urinalyses could involve microscopic examinations or cultures to identify bacteria, if an infection is suspected. The blood urea nitrogen (BUN) test is another diagnostic tool used to assess kidney function by measuring urea levels in the blood.
Diagnosis of kidney stones can also include a CT scan, which is the gold-standard for detecting these formations. Similarly, diagnosing pyelonephritis, an infection of the kidney, may involve urine tests, blood cultures, and imaging in high-risk patients. It is crucial to differentiate chronic kidney disease (CKD) from acute renal failure (ARF) using various imaging and blood tests.