Urinary tract infections in the elderly

Clin Geriatr Med. 2009 Aug;25(3):423-36. doi: 10.1016/j.cger.2009.04.005.

Abstract

Urinary infection is the most common infection in elderly populations. There is a high prevalence of asymptomatic bacteriuria, but this is benign and does not require treatment. A urine specimen for culture should be obtained before initiating antimicrobial therapy for symptomatic infection. Antimicrobial treatment regimens in the elderly are similar to other populations. Chronic indwelling catheters are associated with increased morbidity from urinary tract infection.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Age Factors
  • Aged
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Catheters, Indwelling / adverse effects
  • Humans
  • Prevalence
  • Prognosis
  • Risk Factors
  • United States / epidemiology
  • Urinary Tract Infections* / drug therapy
  • Urinary Tract Infections* / epidemiology
  • Urinary Tract Infections* / etiology

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents