Diagnosis and Management of Fungal Urinary Tract Infections

Abstract

Fungal urinary infections are becoming more common, particularly in hospital settings with the vast majority caused by Candida species. The ability to differentiate colonization from infection is difficult and treatment decisions are far from straightforward. To date, there is no dependable method for distinguishing colonization from infection, as evidence of funguria does not automatically require treatment. Often, mere modification of predisposing factors is sufficient management. Following a standardized algorithm that categorizes patients with regard to symptoms and risk profiles can aid the clinician in proper workup and treatment and mitigate unnecessary antifungal usage.