By Harry Tsai, M.D.
Urinary tract infections are the most common condition treated by urologists in the nosed and treated in the outpatient setting with oral antibiotics.
UTIs are classified as “complicated” or “uncomplicated.” Uncomplicated UTIs are the most common and occur in healthy individuals who have normal anatomy and have no other related health issues. Complicated UTIs are those that are recurrent and have failed conventional antibiotic therapies. In addition, complicated UTIs can results from kidney or bladder stones,
indwelling catheters, neurological deficits (spinal cord patients, multiple
sclerosis, stroke) or anatomical abnormalities.
Most UTIs are treated with a short course of oral antibiotics ranging from 3 to 5 days. The majority of UTIs consists of E. Coli (80%) and staphylococcus saprophyticus (10%) bacteria. Bactrim has been the first line treatment but with resistance, Ciprofloxacin has been used more as the agent of choice.
Urinary tract infections are diagnosed by a urine culture which differentiates the kind of bacteria and the sensitivities for treatment. A new urinary test is now available through PathoGenius R which analyzes the microbial DNA extracted from the patient’s urine, tissue sample or even catheter tip. The DNA sample is then evaluated using molecular diagnostic methods. The report given will contain information about the pathogenic organism detected and the antibiotic which should be given for treatment. There is also capability of analyzing for fungal infections.
Lastly, we can also now make available antibiotic solutions to be instilled in the bladder based on the results of the DNA testing which can help those with difficult and complicated UTIs.
Ft. Myers UrologyCall us today at 239-985-1900
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