UTIs + STIs

Question 1

Which bacteria most commonly causes UTIs?

Answer 1

E.coli

Question 2

Summarise the pathophysiology of UTIs? What are the mechanisms of spread?

Answer 2

1. Micro-organism colonisation and spread
   - spread of bacteria from the urethra into the bladder or kidney
2. Haematogenous spread (through bloodstream) - unlikely to be due to e.coli via this route (?s.aureus)

Question 3

Why are UTIs less common in men?

Answer 3

• longer urethra

- some prostratic secretions have some antimicrobial properties?

Question 4

What are some of the risk factors for developing a UTI?

Answer 4

Women:

• previous UTI
• catheterisation
• urological surgery
• renal transplant
• sexual intercourse
• spermicides

Men:

• lack of circumcision
• penetrative anal intercourse

Older age

• functional/mental impairment
• bladder prolapse