Recurrent uncomplicated lower urinary tract infections in women

Abstract

Recurrent uncomplicated lower urinary tract infections (RULUTIs) are common among women without anatomical or physiological abnormalities and affect women of all age groups, races, and ethnicities. Herein, we summarized the sources of epidemiology, etiology, diagnosis, treatment, prophylaxis, and follow-up evaluations in cases of RULUTIs. Patients' medical histories, symptoms, and signs were recorded. The review showed that urinalysis, culture, and sensitivity should be tested before empiric treatment. A first-line therapeutic strategy should be applied based on the results of the urine culture and sensitivity tests. Therefore, estrogen should be used as an ancillary therapy. After the successful treatment of acute infections, intermittent or continuous prophylaxis can be administered. Patients may benefit from follow-up evaluations to avoid recurrent infections. We expect that clinicians will pay more attention to RULUTIs.

Keywords

Recurrent uncomplicated lower urinary tract infections / Diagnosis / Treatment / Antibiotic / Estrogen / Prophylaxis

Acknowledgments

None.

Statement of ethics

Not applicable.

Conflict of interest statement

The authors explicitly state that there is no association or engagement with any organization or entity that holds financial interests in this manuscript.

Funding source

None.

Author contributions

JL, KX, JH: Drafting the manuscript;

LW, ZL: Critical revision of the manuscript.

Data availability

The datasets generated during and/or analyzed during the current study are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.

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