Urinary tract infection (UTI)

Definition

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection in any part of the urinary system, commonly caused by bacteria, most often Escherichia coli (E. coli). UTIs can affect the urethra, bladder, ureters, and kidneys.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. E. coli is the primary pathogen responsible for causing UTIs.
2. UTIs are more common in women due to their shorter urethra.
3. Symptoms include a strong urge to urinate, a burning sensation during urination, and cloudy urine.
4. Pathogens cause UTIs by adhering to the epithelial cells lining the urinary tract and evading the host's immune response.
5. Complications can include recurrent infections and kidney damage if left untreated.

Review Questions

• What is the most common bacterial cause of UTIs?
• Why are women more prone to developing UTIs than men?
• What mechanisms do pathogens use to establish a UTI?

Related terms

Cystitis: Inflammation of the bladder often resulting from a UTI.

Pyelonephritis: A type of UTI that affects one or both kidneys.

Uropathogenic E. coli (UPEC): A strain of E. coli specifically adapted to cause infections in the urinary tract.