Treatment of "difficult genitourinary tract infections"

Treatment of patients with "urinary tract infections" or related conditions is one of the most common reasons for urologic consultation. Some patients have well-defined syndromes, such as bacterial prostatitis or recurrent cystitis, with familiar algorithms for evaluation and treatment. Unfortunately, many patients have "difficult genitourinary tract infections" that challenge the diagnostic acumen of the urologist and, all too often, lead to frustration of the patient. Although making an etiologic diagnosis may be impossible in every case, an organized approach to evaluation and treatment may avoid unnecessary or inappropriate therapy and patient dissatisfaction.