Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

What Causes Urinary Tract Infection?

UTI is usually caused by organisms originating from the intestines. In 80 - 90% of first infections, the bacteria Escherichia coli is involved.

What Are The Predisposing Factors?

The occurrence of UTI varies with age and sex. The incidence of UTI is 10 times higher in adolescent girls as compared with boys and this continues throughout adult life. The following are predisposing factors:

• Diabetes mellitus
• Foreign bodies (e.g. catheters, urinary tract stones)
• Recent instrumentation of the urinary tract (e.g. catheterisation, cystoscopy, after urodynamic studies)
• Neurological disorders or drugs that may cause incomplete emptying of the bladder
• Co-existing diseases involving the pelvis (e.g. tumours, inflammatory bowel disease)
• Sexual activity

What Happens If UTI Is Left Untreated?

If UTI is left untreated, the infection can spread upwards to the kidneys, causing infection in the kidneys and even renal failure. It can also spread via the blood stream (septicaemia) to affect the body in general, which may be fatal.