Investigation of uncomplicated recurrent urinary tract infections in women

Abstract

Background:

Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) in women are common despite anatomically normal urinary tracts and are frequently referred to secondary care for further assessment.

Patients and methods:

Clinic letters and pathology reports of 244 women referred to our centre over a 2-year period with uncomplicated recurrent UTIs were reviewed to determine the investigations they underwent in both primary and secondary care.

Results:

A significant proportion of women do not meet the criteria for recurrent UTIs as their infections are not proven on culture. The majority of women undergo both renal tract ultrasound scan (USS) and flexible cystoscopy. Though USS was found to demonstrate relevant pathology, flexible cystoscopy, however, did not reveal any relevant pathology.

Conclusion:

Investigation of women with recurrent uncomplicated UTIs should be done with adequate cultures and renal tract USS.