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State-of-the-Art Review: Recurrent Uncomplicated Urinary Tract Infections in Women
Sonali D Advani1, Joshua T Thaden1, Reinaldo Perez1
1Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA.
Summary
Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) affect many women. This review covers the latest diagnosis and treatment strategies for recurrent uncomplicated cystitis, emphasizing shared decision-making.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Infectious Diseases
- Women's Health
Background:
- Over 50% of adult women experience urinary tract infections (UTIs) in their lifetime.
- Recurrent UTIs (rUTIs) affect nearly a quarter of women, defined as ≥2 UTIs in 6 months or ≥3 in 12 months.
- rUTIs significantly impact quality of life and healthcare resource utilization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of the epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of recurrent uncomplicated cystitis in adult women.
- To highlight updated management recommendations from leading medical societies.
- To emphasize the importance of shared decision-making in rUTI management.
Main Methods:
- This is a narrative review synthesizing current literature and expert consensus.
- Information was gathered from infectious disease physicians, urogynecologists, and urologists specializing in rUTI.
- Key guidelines from the Infectious Diseases Society of America, American Urologic Association, Canadian Urologic Association, and American Urogynecologic Society were reviewed.
Main Results:
- Recurrent uncomplicated cystitis is a common condition with multifactorial causes.
- Diagnosis relies on clinical presentation and culture-proven infections.
- Management involves a combination of antibiotic strategies, non-antibiotic prevention, and patient-centered care.
Conclusions:
- Comprehensive management of rUTI requires a multidisciplinary approach.
- Updated guidelines provide a framework for evidence-based treatment.
- Shared decision-making is crucial due to varied prevention options and treatment goals.
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