Assessment and Optimization of the Empiric Treatment of Urinary Tract Infections in an Academic Emergency Department Observation Unit

BackgroundPoor adherence to evidence-based guidelines and overuse of broad-spectrum antibiotics has been noted in the emergency department (ED). There is limited evidence on guideline-congruent empiric therapy for urinary tract infections (UTIs) and uropathogen susceptibilities in the ED observation unit (EDOU).ObjectiveThe primary objective was to evaluate the prescribing patterns for the empiric treatment of UTI in the EDOU. Secondary objectives were to analyze uropathogen susceptibilities in the EDOU and implement an algorithm for the empiric treatment of UTI.MethodsThis study retrospectively reviewed adult patients who received empiric UTI treatment in the EDOU from January 1, 2018 to April 1, 2018. Eligible patients were categorized as having either uncomplicated or complicated cystitis, or pyelonephritis based on their clinical diagnosis. Antimicrobial therapy was evaluated in accordance with national practice guidelines, institutional guidelines, and local antimicrobial susceptibility patterns.ResultsPatients with uncomplicated or complicated cystitis (n = 115) were provided guideline-congruent empiric treatment in 87% of cases. Patients with pyelonephritis (n = 35) were provided guideline-congruent empiric treatment in 57% of cases. Susceptibility patterns of uropathogens isolated from this patient sample differed slightly from the institutional antibiogram, notably depicting a lower Escherichia coli susceptibility rate. Fluoroquinolones were prescribed for a longer than recommended duration in 18 patients (60%).ConclusionsThe majority of patients in this study were provided guideline-congruent empiric therapy. Nevertheless, there are opportunities to optimize empiric UTI treatment and improve antibiotic stewardship in the EDOU.     

Fluoroquinolone and Third-Generation-Cephalosporin Resistance among Hospitalized Patients with Urinary Tract Infections Due to Escherichia coli: Do Rates Vary by Hospital Characteristics and Geographic Region?

This analysis of nearly 10,000 hospital-associated urinary tract infection (UTI) episodes due to Escherichia coli showed that fluoroquinolone and third-generation-cephalosporin resistance rates were 34.5% and 8.6%, respectively; the rate of concurrent resistance to both agents was 7.3%. Fluoroquinolone resistance rates exceeded 25% regardless of geographic location or hospital characteristics. The findings suggest that fluoroquinolones should be reserved and third-generation cephalosporins be used with caution as empirical agents for hospitalized patients with UTIs due to E. coli.     

Resistance of uropathogenic bacteria to first-line antibiotics in mexico city: A multicenter susceptibility analysis

Abstract

Background

Growing antibiotic resistance demands the constant reassessment of antimicrobial efficacy, particularly in countries with wide antibiotic abuse, where higher resistance prevalence is often found. Knowledge of resistance trends is particularly important when prescribing antibiotics empirically, as is usually the case for urinary tract infections (UTIs). Currently, in Mexico City, ampicillin, cotrimoxazole (trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole), and ciprofloxacin are used as “first-line” antibiotic treatment for UTI.

Objective

The aim of this study was to analyze the resistance of bacterial isolates to antibiotics, with a focus on first-line antibiotics, in Mexican pediatric patients and sexually active or pregnant female outpatients.

Methods

In this multicenter susceptibility analysis, bacterial isolates from urine samples collected from pediatric patients and sexually-active or pregnant female outpatients presenting with acute, uncomplicated UTIs in Mexico City from January 2006 through June 2006, were included in the study. Samples were tested for susceptibility to 10 antibiotics by the disk-diffusion method.

Results

Four-hundred and seventeen bacterial isolates were derived from sexually active or pregnant female outpatients (324 Escherichia coli) and pediatric patients (93 Klebsiella pneumoniae). We found a high prevalence of resistance towards the drugs used as “first-line” when treating UTIs: ampicillin, cotrimoxazole, and ciprofloxacin (79%, 60%, and 24% resistance, respectively). Ninety-eight percent of K pneumoniae isolates were resistant to ampicillin, whereas 66% of the E coli isolates were resistant to cotrimoxazole. Resistance towards third-generation cephalosporins was also high (6%–8% of E coli and 10%–28% of K pneumoniae). This was possibly caused by chromosomal β-lactamases, as 30% of all isolates were also resistant to amoxicillin/clavulanate. In contrast, 98% of the E coli isolates and 84% of the K pneumoniae strains (96% of all isolates) were found to be susceptible to nitrofurantoin, which has been in clinical use for much longer than most other drugs in this study.

Conclusion

In these urine samples from laboratories in Mexico City, resistance of K pneumoniae and E coli isolates to first-line treatment (ampicillin, cotrimoxazole, or ciprofloxacin) of UTI was high, whereas most E coli and K pneumoniae isolates were susceptible to nitrofurantoin and the fourth-generation cephalosporin cefepime. (Curr Ther Res Clin Exp. 2007;68:120–126) Copyright © 2007 Excerpta Medica, Inc.Key Words: urinary tract infection, uropathogenic bacteria     

Two Simple Rules for Improving the Accuracy of Empiric Treatment of Multidrug-Resistant Urinary Tract Infections

The emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) uropathogens is making the treatment of urinary tract infections (UTIs) more challenging. We sought to evaluate the accuracy of empiric therapy for MDR UTIs and the utility of prior culture data in improving the accuracy of the therapy chosen. The electronic health records from three U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs facilities were retrospectively reviewed for the treatments used for MDR UTIs over 4 years. An MDR UTI was defined as an infection caused by a uropathogen resistant to three or more classes of drugs and identified by a clinician to require therapy. Previous data on culture results, antimicrobial use, and outcomes were captured from records from inpatient and outpatient settings. Among 126 patient episodes of MDR UTIs, the choices of empiric therapy against the index pathogen were accurate in 66 (52%) episodes. For the 95 patient episodes for which prior microbiologic data were available, when empiric therapy was concordant with the prior microbiologic data, the rate of accuracy of the treatment against the uropathogen improved from 32% to 76% (odds ratio, 6.9; 95% confidence interval, 2.7 to 17.1; P < 0.001). Genitourinary tract (GU)-directed agents (nitrofurantoin or sulfa agents) were equally as likely as broad-spectrum agents to be accurate (P = 0.3). Choosing an agent concordant with previous microbiologic data significantly increased the chance of accuracy of therapy for MDR UTIs, even if the previous uropathogen was a different species. Also, GU-directed or broad-spectrum therapy choices were equally likely to be accurate. The accuracy of empiric therapy could be improved by the use of these simple rules.     

Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole resistance in urinary tract infections

Urinary tract infections (UTI) are among the most prevalent infectious diseases, and their financial burden on society is substantial. Management of UTIs has been complicated by the emergence of resistance to most commonly used antibiotics. Increasing prevalence of resistance has led to a gradual evolution in the antibiotics used to treat UTIs. The aims of this study were to determine the TMP/SMX (trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole) resistance rate in patients with uncomplicated UTIs and to determine which empiric antibiotics are prescribed in the emergency department for the outpatient management of UTI. Between June 2004 and May 2005, archives of the emergency department were searched retrospectively and the files of patients diagnosed with UTI were reviewed. Patients' demographical data, urine culture results, pathogen microorganisms, and TMP/SMX and fluoroquinolone (FQ) resistance rates were recorded. We obtained information from 274 files of patients who had been diagnosed with UTI. The most frequently isolated pathogen was Escherichia coli (54%). Of the 274 patients diagnosed with UTI, 251 had been started on empiric antibiotics. The most frequently prescribed antibiotics were FQs (85%), and the first choice in this group was ofloxacin (58%). The resistance rate for TMP/SMX was 34% and all of the resistant microorganisms were E. coli. The resistance rate for the FQ group was 16.4% and resistant microorganisms were E. coli. In the treatment of UTIs in our patient population, the most prescribed antibiotics were FQs. At the same time it was found that resistance rates against FQ antibiotics are as high as 16.4%. Unfortunately, in our population, in the near future, empiric FQ use may result in bacterial resistance.     

Urinary tract infection: traditional pharmacologic therapies

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common bacterial infections, particularly in women. Antimicrobial therapy is seldom indicated for asymptomatic infection, but antimicrobial therapy is usually indicated for amelioration of symptoms. Management of acute uncomplicated UTI (cystitis) is generally straightforward, with a predictable distribution of uropathogens isolated. First-line treatment of acute uncomplicated UTI has traditionally involved a 3-day regimen of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) or TMP alone for patients with sulfa allergies. Increasing resistance among community-acquired Escherichia coli to TMP-SMX worldwide has led to a reassessment of the most appropriate empiric therapy for these infections. Alternative first-line agents include the fluoroquinolones, nitrofurantoin, and fosfomycin.Factors to be considered in the selection of appropriate antimicrobial therapy include pharmacokinetics, spectrum of activity of the antimicrobial agent, resistance prevalence for the community, potential for adverse effects, and duration of therapy. Ideal antimicrobial agents for UTI management have primary excretion routes through the urinary tract to achieve high urinary drug levels. In addition, there are special considerations in the management of UTI among selected populations, including postmenopausal and pregnant women, and for women with frequent recurrent UTIs.     

High rates of quinolone resistance among urinary tract infections in the ED

Objectives

The objectives of this study are to examine antibiotic resistance rates and to determine appropriate empiric oral antibiotic for patients with urinary tract infections (UTIs) evaluated and discharged from the ED.

Methods

A retrospective, single-institution chart review study from August 2008 to March 2009 was conducted. Adult patients seen in the ED with UTI were identified for study inclusion from review of microbiology records. Hospitalized or asymptomatic bacteriuria cases were excluded. Health care-associated (HA)-UTI was defined as UTI with indwelling urinary catheters, health care exposure, or urologic procedures within 3 months. Prevalence of causative bacteria, antibiotic resistance rates, and risk factors for quinolone resistance were determined.

Results

There were 337 eligible patients with 83% women. The most common uropathogens among 357 bacterial isolates were Escherichia coli (71%) and Klebsiella spp. (9%). Overall levofloxacin resistance rate was 17%. Resistance rates for HA-UTIs were significantly greater than those for community-associated-UTI: levofloxacin, 38% vs 10%; trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, 26% vs 17%; amoxicillin, 53% vs 45%; and amoxicillin-clavulanate, 16% vs 6%. Nitrofurantoin resistance rates were similar (9%). Independent risk factors for levofloxacin resistance were long-term medical conditions (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 4.23; P = .001), HA-UTI (aOR, 2.56; P = .006), and prior quinolone use within 1 week (aOR, 14.90; P = .02) and within 1 to 4 weeks (aOR, 4.62; P = .04).

Conclusions

We report high rates of quinolone resistance in ED patients with UTIs at our institution. For patients with risk factors for quinolone resistance, empiric therapy with cephalosporins or nitrofurantoin may be preferred. Urine culture and susceptibility testing should be performed to guide definitive therapy for HA-UTIs.     

Critically Ill Health Care-Associated Urinary Tract Infection: Broad vs. Narrow Antibiotics in the Emergency Department Have Similar Outcomes

BackgroundUrinary tract infection (UTI) is the second most common infection requiring intensive care unit (ICU) admission in emergency department (ED) patients. Optimal empiric management for health care-associated (HCA) UTI is unclear, particularly in the critically ill.ObjectiveTo compare clinical failure of broad vs. narrow antibiotic selection in the ED for patients presenting with HCA UTI admitted to the ICU.MethodsObservational cohort of patients started on empiric antibiotic for UTI with at least one HCA risk factor (recurrent UTI, chronic urinary catheter or dialysis, urologic procedures, previous antibiotic exposure, hospitalization, or group facility residence). Broad antibiotics covered Pseudomonas spp. and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase. Clinical failure was a composite of multiorgan dysfunction (MODS) by day 2 and in-hospital mortality. Secondary outcomes were length of stay (LOS), readmission, recurrent infection, development of multidrug-resistant organisms, and Clostridium difficile infection. Associations were reported with odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI).ResultsThere were 272 patients included; 196 (72.1%) received broad and 76 (27.9%) received narrow therapy. There was no association between antibiotic selection and clinical failure (OR 1.05, 95% CI 0.5–2.25, p = 0.89) or between antibiotic selection and number of HCA risk factors (OR 0.98, 95% CI 0.73–1.31, p = 0.87). There was an association between clinical failure and MODS on ICU admission (OR 9.14, 95% CI 4.70–17.78, p < 0.001). Hospital LOS and readmission did not differ between antibiotic groups.ConclusionInitial empiric broad or narrow antibiotic coverage in HCA UTI patients who presented to the ED and required ICU admission had similar clinical outcomes.     

Antibiotic resistance in isolates recovered from women with community-acquired urinary tract infections presenting to a tertiary care emergency department

ABSTRACTIntroduction:We sought to determine the antibiotic susceptibility of organisms causing community-acquired urinary tract infections (UTIs) in adult females attending an urban emergency department (ED) and to identify risk factors for antibiotic resistance.Methods:We reviewed the ED charts of all nonpregnant, nonlactating adult females with positive urine cultures for 2008 and recorded demographics, diagnosis, complicating factors, organism susceptibility, and risk factors for antibiotic resistance. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for potential risk factors were calculated.Results: Our final sample comprised 327 UTIs: 218 were cystitis, of which 22 were complicated cases and 109 were pyelonephritis, including 22 complicated cases. Escherichia coli accounted for 82.3% of all UTIs, whereas Staphylococcus saprophyticus accounted for 5.2%. In uncomplicated cystitis, 9.5% of all isolates were resistant to ciprofloxacin and 24.0% to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX). In uncomplicated pyelonephritis, 19.5% of isolates were resistant to ciprofloxacin and 36.8% to TMP-SMX. In UTI (all types combined), any antibiotic use within the previous 3 months was a significant risk factor for resistance to both ciprofloxacin (OR 3.34, 95% CI 1.16-9.62) and TMP-SMX (OR 4.02, 95% CI 1.48-10.92). Being 65 years of age or older and having had a history of UTI in the previous year were risk factors only for ciprofloxacin resistance. Conclusions:E. coli was the predominant urinary pathogen in this series. Resistance to ciprofloxacin and TMP-SMX was high, highlighting the importance of relevant, local antibiograms. Any recent antibiotic use was a risk factor for both ciprofloxacin and TMP-SMX resistance in UTI. Our findings should be confirmed with a larger prospective study.     

2003-2007年间1959例泌尿系感染患者病原菌耐药性监测

目的　分析2003-2007年5年间河南省人民医院泌尿系感染患者病原菌类别及其耐药情况，为疾病防治工作提供参考依据。方法　对2003年1月1日至2007年12月31日间该院住院及门诊患者尿培养标本中分离出的1959 株细菌进行鉴定和耐药分析。结果　5年间该院泌尿系感染患者感染菌株以大肠埃希菌为主，占44.8%；其次为肠球菌，占17.7%；念珠菌占11.5%。 肠杆菌科细菌对亚胺培南100% 敏感；革兰阳性球菌对呋喃妥因和万古霉素的敏感率较高。结论　分离的1959例泌尿系感染患者病原菌对氨苄西林、哌拉西林、环丙沙星、左旋氧氟沙星、复方新诺明的耐药率较高，在治疗泌尿系感染时要慎用；阿米卡星、呋喃妥因等可以作为首选。由于病原菌对抗菌药物耐药率高,且具有高耐药与多重耐药的特点，治疗仍需以药物监测为依据。     

Addressing antibiotic resistance

Management of uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) has traditionally been based on 2 important principles: the spectrum of organisms causing acute UTI is highly predictable (Escherichia coli accounts for 75% to 90% and Staphylococcus saprophyticus accounts for 5% to 15% of isolates), and the susceptibility patterns of these organisms have also been relatively predictable. As a result, empiric therapy with short-course trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) has been a standard management approach for uncomplicated cystitis.However, antibiotic resistance is now becoming a major factor not only in nosocomial complicated UTIs, but also in uncomplicated community-acquired UTIs. Resistance to TMP-SMX now approaches 18% to 22% in some regions of the United States, and nearly 1 in 3 bacterial strains causing cystitis or pyelonephritis demonstrate resistance to amoxicillin. Fortunately, resistance to other agents, such as nitrofurantoin and the fluoroquinolones, has remained low, at approximately 2%. Preliminary data suggest that the increase in TMP-SMX resistance is associated with poorer bacteriologic and clinical outcomes when TMP-SMX is used for therapy. As a result, these trends have necessitated a change in the management approach to community-acquired UTI. The use of TMP-SMX as a first-line agent for empiric therapy of uncomplicated cystitis is only appropriate in areas where TMP-SMX resistance prevalence is <10% to 20%. In areas where resistance to TMP-SMX exceeds this rate, alternative agents need to be considered.     

An update on the management of urinary tract infections in the era of antimicrobial resistance

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by antibiotic-resistant Gram-negative bacteria are a growing concern due to limited therapeutic options. Gram-negative bacteria, specifically Enterobacteriaceae, are common causes of both community-acquired and hospital acquired UTIs. These organisms can acquire genes that encode for multiple antibiotic resistance mechanisms, including extended-spectrum-lactamases (ESBLs), AmpC- β -lactamase, and carbapenemases. The assessment of suspected UTI includes identification of characteristic symptoms or signs, urinalysis, dipstick or microscopic tests, and urine culture if indicated. UTIs are categorized according to location (upper versus lower urinary tract) and severity (uncomplicated versus complicated). Increasing rates of antibiotic resistance necessitate judicious use of antibiotics through the application of antimicrobial stewardship principles. Knowledge of the common causative pathogens of UTIs including local susceptibility patterns are essential in determining appropriate empiric therapy. The recommended first-line empiric therapies for acute uncomplicated bacterial cystitis in otherwise healthy adult nonpregnant females is a 5-day course of nitrofurantion or a 3-g single dose of fosfomycin tromethamine. Second-line options include fluoroquinolones and β-lactams, such as amoxicillin-clavulanate. Current treatment options for UTIs due to AmpC- β -lactamase-producing organisms include fosfomycin, nitrofurantion, fluoroquinolones, cefepime, piperacillin–tazobactam and carbapenems. In addition, treatment options for UTIs due to ESBLs–producing Enterobacteriaceae include nitrofurantion, fosfomycin, fluoroquinolones, cefoxitin, piperacillin-tazobactam, carbapenems, ceftazidime-avibactam, ceftolozane-tazobactam, and aminoglycosides. Based on identification and susceptibility results, alternatives to carbapenems may be used to treat mild-moderate UTIs caused by ESBL-producing Enterobacteriaceae. Ceftazidime-avibactam, colistin, polymixin B, fosfomycin, aztreonam, aminoglycosides, and tigecycline are treatment options for UTIs caused by carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE). Treatment options for UTIs caused by multidrug resistant (MDR)-Pseudomonas spp. include fluoroquinolones, ceftazidime, cefepime, piperacillin-tazobactam, carbapenems, aminoglycosides, colistin, ceftazidime-avibactam, and ceftolozane-tazobactam. The use of fluoroquinolones for empiric treatment of UTIs should be restricted due to increased rates of resistance. Aminoglycosides, colistin, and tigecycline are considered alternatives in the setting of MDR Gram-negative infections in patients with limited therapeutic options.     

Female Patient Self-diagnosis Compared With Emergency Physician Diagnosis of Urinary Tract Infection

Background

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common emergency department (ED) complaint and self-diagnosis may be possible.

Objective

The objective was to compare female patient self-diagnosis compared with emergency physician (EP) diagnosis of UTI.

Methods

This was a prospective cohort study in a single urban ED. Women aged 18–64 years with a chief complaint of UTI, urinary frequency, or dysuria who presented to an urban academic ED were enrolled in a convenience sample fashion. Patients completed a written four-question survey by an ED greeter before triage. Charts of respondents were reviewed for demographic, laboratory, and EP diagnosis.

Results

Fifty women were enrolled; 100% of patients who were approached participated in the study. Mean age was 33.7 years (standard deviation 13.8). Forty-three patients (86%) had a history of UTI. Forty-one patients (82%) thought they had a UTI on the index visit. Thirty patients (60%) preferred to buy over-the-counter antibiotics for their symptoms instead of seeing a doctor. Fifteen patients (30%) identified a specific antibiotic they would take. Of the 41 patients who thought they had a UTI, 25 (61%) were given that diagnosis. Of the 30 patients who would have preferred over-the-counter antibiotics, 20 (67%) were actually prescribed them. Agreement between EP and women's final impressions was low (κ = 0.11).

Conclusions

There was poor agreement between EP diagnosis and self-diagnosis of UTI. In our ED population, women should be encouraged to seek medical attention to confirm the diagnosis.     

Risk factors for community-acquired ciprofloxacin-resistant Escherichia coli urinary tract infection

BACKGROUND: Fluoroquinolones are recommended for the empiric treatment of urinary tract infection (UTI) in communities in which uropathogen resistance to trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMX) is >or=10% to 20%. However, recent studies also have demonstrated an increase in the isolation of fluoroquinolone-resistant Escherichia coli. Identification of outpatients at increased risk for fluoroquinolone resistance would improve the selection of empiric treatment. OBJECTIVE: To identify risk factors for community-acquired UTIs due to ciprofloxacin-resistant E. coli (CREC). METHODS: All medical records from the University of California at San Francisco Medical Center from January to December 2001 were retrospectively reviewed to identify patients with community-acquired UTI due to CREC. Patients with community-acquired UTI due to ciprofloxacin-susceptible E. coli presenting during the same time period were randomly selected as the study group in a 1:2 ratio of case to controls. RESULTS: Independent risk factors for CREC included recurrent UTI (OR 8.13) and prior exposure to fluoroquinolones (OR 30.35). CONCLUSIONS: Fluoroquinolones continue to be appropriate empiric treatment in most patients with uncomplicated UTI. Nitrofurantoin or a cephalosporin may be better choices in patients with recurrent lower UTI and/or previous fluoroquinolone use.     

Urinary tract infection as a possible marker for teenage sex

BACKGROUND: Pediatric urinary tract infections (UTIs) are markers for genitourinary reflux or obstruction. Adult UTIs are treated by telephone triage without microbiologic study. The contrast between pediatric and adult UTIs prompted our retrospective review of adolescent UTIs. METHODS: Ninety-six adolescent girls without chronic illness, urogenital abnormalities, pregnancy, enuresis, or constipation had urine cultures with 100,000 colonies/mm3. RESULTS: The 32 patients who were initially sexually active continued sexual activity (75%), became pregnant (25%), and had subsequent sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) (13%). There were no pregnancies, STDs, or subsequent UTIs in 9 patients who were not initially sexually active. The 55 patients with no documentation of sexual activity were comparable to those who were initially sexually active: 66% had evidence of sexual activity; 20% had subsequent pregnancy; 14% had subsequent STDs; and 42% had UTI recurrence. CONCLUSION: Adolescents with UTIs have a significant frequency of sexual activity. Information about responsible sexual activity and access to care is important to adolescents, particularly those with UTIs.     

High Prevalence of Sexually Transmitted Diseases in Women with Urinary Infections

Objective: To determine the prevalence and factors associated with unrecognized sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in women who had pelvic examinations and were subsequently released from the ED with a sole diagnosis of urinary tract infection (UTI).
Methods: A 3-month retrospective chart review was performed in an urban teaching hospital ED (>70,000 visits/year). Women aged 12–45 years who had pelvic examinations and were released from the ED with a sole diagnosis of UTI were included. Patient complaints, physical findings, and laboratory results were reviewed. Laboratory evaluations included the complete blood count, urinalysis, urine pregnancy test, and cervical cultures for Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis and Trichomonas.
Results: Of the 94 women who met study criteria, 53% had proven STDs (19% N. gonorrhoeae 22% C. trachornaris 33% Trichomonas). There was no difference between the patients with positive and negative tests for STDs with regard to complaints, physical findings, and laboratory results (all p > 0.05).
Conclusions: Women undergoing pelvic examinations who are subsequently released, from this urban ED with the diagnosis of UTI have a high (>50%) prevalence of occult STDs. No complaint, physical finding, or laboratory result reviewed was associated with the risk of an STD. Consideration should be given to empirical antibiotic therapy in similar urban populations.     

Urinary tract infections in the elderly population

Background

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common problem in the elderly population. The spectrum of disease varies from a relatively benign cystitis to potentially life-threatening pyelonephritis.

Objective

This review covers the management of asymptomatic bacteriuria, acute uncomplicated cystitis, acute uncomplicated pyelonephritis, antibiotic resistance, catheter-associated bacteriuria/symptomatic UTIs, and antibiotic prophylaxis for recurrent infections in elderly men and women.

Methods

Literature was obtained from English-language searches of MEDLINE (1966–April 2011), Cochrane Library, BIOSIS (1993–April 2011), and EMBASE (1970–April 2011). Further publications were identified from citations of resulting articles. Search terms included, but were not limited to, urinary tract infections, asymptomatic bacteriuria, acute uncomplicated cystitis, acute uncomplicated pyelonephritis, antibiotic resistance, catheter associated urinary tract infections, recurrent urinary tract infections, and elderly.

Results

The prevalence of UTIs in elderly women depends on the location in which these women are living. For elderly women living in the community, UTIs compromise the second most common infection, whereas in residents of long-term care facilities (LTCFs) and hospitalized subjects, it is the number one cause of infection. The spectrum of patient presentation varies from classic signs and symptoms in the independent elderly population to atypical presentations, including increased lethargy, delirium, blunted fever response, and anorexia. Although there are few guidelines specifically directed toward the management of UTIs in the elderly population, therapy generally mirrors the recommendations for the younger adult age groups. When choosing a treatment regimen, special attention must be given to the severity of illness, living conditions, existing comorbidities, presence of external devices, local antibiotic resistance patterns, and the ability of the patient to comply with therapy.

Conclusions

Improved guidelines for the diagnosis and management of UTIs in the elderly population are needed. Better techniques to evaluate and prevent catheter-associated bacteriuria and UTIs await improved diagnostic modalities and catheter technologies. Alternative methods for prophylaxis of patients who suffer from recurrent infections must be found while minimizing the risk of developing or propagating antibiotic resistance.     

Etiology and Antibiotic Susceptibility Patterns of Urinary Tract Infections in Children in a General Hospital in Kuwait: A 5-Year Retrospective Study

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to determine the bacterial profile and prevalence of antibiotic resistance patterns of uropathogens, as well as to evaluate the problem with extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs)-producing isolates, causing urinary tract infections (UTIs) in children in Al-Amiri Hospital, Kuwait, over a 5-year period.Materials and MethodsSignificant isolates from symptomatic pediatric patients with UTIs from January 2017 to December 2021 were identified by conventional methods and by the VITEK 2 identification card system. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed by the disk diffusion method for Gram-positive organisms and an automated VITEK 2 system for Gram-negative organisms. ESBL-producing Enterobacterales were detected by the double-disk diffusion method and VITEK 2 system.ResultsSignificant bacteriuria was detected in 13.7% of the 9,742 urine samples. Escherichia coli accounted for 67.3% of these, followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae (8.9%), Proteus spp. (5.7%), and Enterococcus spp. (7.4%), respectively. High resistance rates were observed among the Enterobacterales against ampicillin, cephalothin, nitrofurantoin, amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. The prevalence of ESBL-producing E. coli and K. pneumoniae was 26% and 55%, respectively. The most sensitive among the antibiotics tested for Gram-negative organisms were meropenem, amikacin, gentamicin, and piperacillin/tazobactam, while the antibiotics tested for Gram-positive organisms were vancomycin, ampicillin, linezolid, and nitrofurantoin.ConclusionE. coli remains the most common uropathogen. A high percentage of uropathogens causing UTI in children were highly resistant to the first- and second-line antibiotics for the therapy of UTI. ESBL-producing bacteria were highly prevalent in children in our hospital. Local antibiograms should be used to assist with empirical UTI treatment.