UTI 1 Flashcards

1. Recognize the symptoms and signs of a urinary tract infection (UTI) and interpret confirmatory diagnostic tests. (CMKS-1d, MKS-3c)

1
Q

What is the epidemiology of UTIs?

A
  • Urinary tract infections are common events, particularly in young boys, prepubertal children and women.
  • These infections require more than 7 million office visits per year in the U.S. and expenses exceed $1billion annually.
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2
Q

Describe the pathogenesis of UTIs.

A
  • The bacteria present virulence factors which allow them to ascend from the gut to the urethra and into the bladder.
    • One of the key virulence factors is the ability of the bacteria to bind to the cell surface using type 1 pili.
    • If bacteria also possess p-pili, they can adhere to the upper tract and cause a kidney infection.
  • Bacterial colonization of the vaginal mucosa of women with susceptibility to urinary tract infections is much greater than healthy controls, precedes urinary tract infections, and is a critical link in this pathway.
  • Women with increased susceptibility to UTIs have a systemic genetically controlled alteration in their cell’s ability to bind pathogenic bacteria.
    • Once the adhesive process begins, the host tries to defend itself and the bacteria try to impede the defense by altering the inflammatory, apoptotic, and invasive pathways.
  • A number of factors contribute to increased susceptibility of urinary tract infection. Host factors include those that promote colonization, facilitate ascent and reduce urine flow.
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3
Q

What are the symptoms of a UTI?

A
  • Symptoms for cystitis include dysuria, urgency and frequency
  • Pyelonephritis has the same symptoms as cystitis plus fever, chills and flank pain
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