Acute Pyelonephritis Flashcards
Acute pyelonephritis is when a UTI affects…
the tissue of the kidney (renal parenchyma) and upper ureter
Acute pyelonephritis can lead to s____ in the tissue and a reduction in ____ ______
scarring, kidney function
What are 3 key presentations of acute pyelonephritis?
A temperature greater than 38 degrees
Loin pain or tenderness
Pyuria
What is pyuria?
Pus containing WBCs found in the urine
What organism is commonly the cause of the pyelonephritis?
UPEC (Uropathogenic Escherichia coli)
What mnemonic describes the most common micro-organisms responsible for UTIs?
KEEPS
Klebsiella
Enterococcus faecalis
Escherichia coli
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Staphylococcus saprophyticus
Who is most at risk of pyelonephritis?
Females over 35
What is the 1st line investigation for suspected pyelonephritis?
urine dipstick
What is the gold standard investigation for pyelonephritis?
MC+S urine (microscopy, culture and sensitivity)
Analyses urine specimens to find causative microorganism and correct drug.
Should a dipstick test of MC+S be used if stones are suspected?
MC+S
How is pyelonephritis managed?
Analgesia eg paracetamol
Antibiotics: ciprofloxacin or co-amoxiclav
What medication is given for pyelonephritis if pregnant?
Cefalexin
Why does the present of nitrites in the urine suggest bacteria?
Gram negative bacteria like E. coli break down nitrates (normal waste product in urine) into nitrites.
