The impact of urinary tract infections in renal transplant recipients

Urinary tract infections (UTIs), including cystitis and pyelonephritis, are the most common infections after kidney transplantation. On examining the role of surveillance and treatment of asymptomatic bacteriuria posttransplant, Fiorante and colleagues found that up to 50% of recipients had bacteriuria. Despite routine treatment, recurrent UTIs remained common. Many risk factors contribute to the high incidence of UTIs, which can undermine graft function and survival. Given that many UTIs are asymptomatic, screening protocols may be beneficial.