Urinary tract infections. Views on microbiological diagnosis and resistance determination
Andersen, B.M.; Due, J.; Grøtta, J.
Tidsskrift for den Norske Laegeforening Tidsskrift for Praktisk Medicin Ny Raekke 111(2): 215-218
1991
ISSN/ISBN: 0029-2001 PMID: 1998185 Document Number: 373561
Urinary tract infection is a common problem affecting every fifth woman during her life. Although the clinical diagnosis is easy, and is based mainly on symptoms and microscopy of urine sediment, the microbiological diagnosis is often difficult. Escherichia coli is the main etiologic agent, causing urinary tract infection in approximately 80% of the cases. Adherent, uropathogenic E coli strains are associated with pyelonephritis and relapse. Staphylococcus saprophyticus is a frequent cause of urinary tract infections in fertile women. The urethral syndrome, caused by several agents, is an important factor in differential diagnosis. Microscopy is the cornerstone of all diagnostics of urinary tract infections. A urine culture that is taken, handled, transported and interpreted satisfactorily can provide valuable information with respect to diagnosis, treatment, prophylaxis and epidemiology.