Management of urinary tract infections in adults: An overview

Abstract

Urinary tract infections(UTIs)remain one of the most common infections observed in community and hospital based practice. They result in significant morbidity and mortality while consuming large amounts of national resources. It is estimated that 7 million episodes of cystitis occur annually in the United States and the cost of caring for such infections exceeds $1 billion[I]. Although most adult (UTIs) are uncomplicated and respond rapidly to antimicrobial therapy, they occasionally cause serious and permanent renal damage. Due to the anatomical continuity of the system infection may extend throughout part or all of the urinary tract, and more rarely, may involve the perinephric spaces[2].The incidence of (UTIs)in women is 10 times that in men and amounts to an annual general practice consultation rate of 62.5per 1000[3,4]. In institutionalised elderly patients the prevalence of asymptomatic bacteruria approaches 20-50% in women and 5-20% in men[5]. Clearly on the basis of their prevalence alone (UTIs) warrant careful consideration by clinicians.