Urinary tract infection

Infection that affects part of the urinary tract

 This article is about the infection.
   For the song by Julia Michaels, see Issues (song).

Urinary Tract Infection

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection that affects part of the urinary tract. When it affects the lower urinary tract it is known as a simple cystitis (a bladder infection), and when it affects the upper urinary tract it is known as pyelonephritis (a kidney infection). Symptoms from a lower urinary tract infection include dysuria (painful urination) and frequent urination or urge to urinate, while symptoms of a kidney infection include fever and flank pain in addition to the symptoms of a lower UTI.

Signs and Symptoms

Pyuria, or pus in the urine, is a common sign of UTI.

The most common symptoms of a UTI include a burning sensation when urinating, frequent urination, and an urgent need to urinate. In cases of pyelonephritis, symptoms may also include fever, chills, and back pain. Pyuria, or pus in the urine, is often present.

Causes

Uropathogenic E. coli (UPEC) adhered to bladder epithelial cells.

UTIs are most commonly caused by Escherichia coli, a type of bacteria that normally lives in the intestines. Other bacteria can also cause UTIs. Risk factors include female anatomy, sexual activity, diabetes, obesity, and family history.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is typically based on symptoms and confirmed by a urinalysis or urine culture. In complicated cases, imaging of the urinary tract may be required.

Prevention

Preventive measures include drinking plenty of fluids, urinating after sexual intercourse, and for women, wiping from front to back. Cranberry products have been studied for prevention, but evidence of their effectiveness is mixed.

Treatment

Co-trimoxazole, an antibiotic used to treat UTIs.

UTIs are typically treated with antibiotics. The choice of antibiotic depends on the type of bacteria causing the infection and the patient's medical history. Common antibiotics include trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, nitrofurantoin, and ciprofloxacin.

Complications

If left untreated, a UTI can lead to more serious infections such as pyelonephritis or sepsis. Recurrent infections are also a concern, especially in women.

Epidemiology

UTIs are one of the most common types of infections, particularly in women. It is estimated that about 50% of women will have at least one UTI in their lifetime.

Related Pages

• Cystitis
• Pyelonephritis
• Antibiotic resistance