Introduction to Urinary Tract Infections.
10.4111/kju.2006.47.6.559
- Author:
Yong Hyun CHO
1
Author Information
1. Department of Urology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea. cyh0831@catholic.ac.kr
- Publication Type:Review
- MeSH:
Communicable Diseases;
Diagnosis;
Health Expenditures;
Humans;
Urinary Tract Infections*;
Urinary Tract*;
Virulence Factors
- From:Korean Journal of Urology
2006;47(6):559-567
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
Abstract:
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common infectious diseases, which can be associated with substantial morbidity and significant expenditures. This review highlights the current concepts and recent advances in our understanding and management of these conditions, specifically the pathogenesis, host factors, antimicrobial resistance, diagnosis and clinical approach to treatment. UTIs can be viewed as an interaction between specific bacterial virulence factors and the susceptibility of the host. For effective patient management, the critical step in the clinical management is to define the complicating urological factors. Current treatment trends for the reduction of UTI include empirical antimicrobial and short-course therapies. The management of complicated urinary tract infections is determined by the treatment of anatomical and functional abnormalities and antimicrobial therapy, as well as supportive care when needed. For the further proper management of UTIs, a profound understanding of their pathogenesis and a strict rationale for antimicrobial therapy, under constant surveillance, are required.
