UTI Flashcards
(110 cards)
What is the most common pathogen causing urinary tract infections worldwide?
E. coli
Why is UTI more common in females than males?
The female urethra is shorter (1.5 inches) compared to the male urethra (8 inches), allowing easier pathogen access.
What is the most common route of UTI infection?
Ascending route (>95%) where pathogens travel from urethra to bladder, ureter, and kidneys.
Name two pathogens associated with hematogenous UTI infections.
Salmonella typhi and Staphylococcus aureus.
What genetic factor can predispose individuals to recurrent UTIs?
Mutations in innate immune response genes (e.g., Toll-like receptors, IL-8 receptors).
What are two common virulence factors of uropathogenic E. coli?
P fimbriae and Type 1 fimbriae (pili).
How does spermicides contribute to UTI risk?
Spermicides are toxic to normal vaginal flora, allowing pathogenic bacteria to colonize.
What host urinary characteristic helps prevent UTIs?
Urine pH, osmolality, and proteins like Tamm-Horsfall protein.
What is the most common risk factor for recurrent UTIs in premenopausal women?
Frequent sexual intercourse.
Why should pregnant women be screened and treated for asymptomatic bacteriuria (ASB)?
ASB in pregnancy is associated with maternal pyelonephritis, preterm delivery, and low birth weight.
What is the recurrence rate of UTIs in females who have had one episode?
20-30% of females experience recurrent episodes, averaging 2.6 infections per year.
What is the main risk factor for UTI in males with diabetes?
Incomplete voiding due to poor bladder function or obstruction.
What are the three routes of UTI infection?
Ascending routes, hematogenous routes, and lymphatic routes.
What host defenses maintain urinary sterility?
Urinary pH, immunoglobulins, lactoferrin, Tamm-Horsfall protein, and inflammatory cells.
Which age group and gender are most affected by UTIs during the neonatal period?
Male infants due to congenital urinary tract abnormalities.
What factor increases the risk of UTIs in postmenopausal women?
Estrogen depletion leading to a more alkaline vaginal pH.
What are independent risk factors for acute cystitis in females?
Recent use of a diaphragm + spermicide, frequent sexual intercourse, and history of UTIs.
What is the main concern with the use of SGLT2 inhibitors in diabetic patients?
Increased risk of genital and urinary tract infections due to glycosuria.
Why do uncircumcised males have a higher risk of UTI?
E. coli is more likely to colonize the glans and prepuce.
What is the primary microbial factor of E. coli that leads to pyelonephritis?
P fimbriae binding to renal epithelial cells.
How does neurogenic bladder contribute to UTI risk?
Urinary stasis and incomplete bladder emptying provide a focus for bacterial colonization.
What is the recommended frequency of replacing an indwelling foley catheter?
Usually every 2 weeks unless it is obviously dirty.
How does vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) contribute to UTI?
It allows urine backflow from the bladder to the ureter and kidneys, leading to bacterial colonization.
Why are asymptomatic bacteriuria rates higher in diabetic females?
Poor bladder function, obstruction, and impaired cytokine secretion.