Urinary Tract Infections and Kidney Involvement

Urinary tract infections are common bacterial infections that can affect any part of the urinary system, including the bladder, urethra, and kidneys. If left untreated, a UTI can progress to kidney involvement, a condition known as pyelonephritis. Pyelonephritis typically presents with symptoms...

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are defined as microbial infiltration of the sterile urinary tract, commonly caused by ascending bacterial infections or bacteremia. Uncomplicated UTIs, often seen in women due to anatomical factors, are mainly caused by uropathogenic E. coli (UPEC) and other pathogens like Klebsiella species and Proteus mirabilis. Symptoms include dysuria, increased frequency, and hematuria for cystitis, while pyelonephritis presents with fever, nausea, vomiting, and flank pain. Diagnosis involves urine examination, culture, and sometimes imaging.