[Diagnosis and therapy of urinary tract infections]

Urinary tract infections (UTI) are one of the most frequent indications for antibacterial chemotherapy. We must be differentiate between complicated and uncomplicated as well as between upper and lower UTI. Regarding the definition of significant bacteriuria (> or = 10(5) CFU/ml), some relativations are necessary. Dip-slide techniques proved to be very useful for bacteriological diagnosis. The calculated therapy depends upon age and sex and is different for community-acquired and nosocomial infections. Further items are the selection of antibacterial agents, the duration of chemotherapy, the role of asymptomatic bacteriuria and reinfection prophylaxis.