Pathogenesis and management of recurrent urinary tract infection in women.
A number of pathogenic factors for the development of recurrent urinary tract infection, such as prolonged vaginal colonization with uropathogenic Escherichia coli, nonsecretion of ABH blood-group antigens, impaired local immune response, oestrogen deficiency in postmenopausal women and altered vaginal milieu caused by the use of contraceptives, are involved. Long-term use of antimicrobial agents is the cornerstone of prevention of recurrent urinary tract infection. Other approaches currently used involve self-start (on demand) therapy, oestrogen replacement in postmenopausal women, behavioural changes and alternative therapies, such as acupuncture.
Madersbacher
S
S
Department of Urology, University of Vienna, Austria. uroldep@akh-wien.ac.at
Thalhammer
F
F
Marberger
M
M
D015670:Acupuncture Therapy; D000328:Adult; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000529:Complementary Therapies; D003271:Contraceptive Agents, Female / Q000009:adverse effects; D004927:Escherichia coli Infections / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy*; D015914:Estrogen Replacement Therapy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D012008:Recurrence; D018570:Risk Assessment; D014552:Urinary Tract Infections / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000628:therapy; D014621:Vagina / Q000382:microbiology; D016387:Women's Health
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents; D003271:Contraceptive Agents, Female