DRUG-RELATED URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS

Abstract

Bacterial urinary tract infection (UTI) is the most common infection, both in outpatient treatment and in hospital settings. Clinically, UTIs are classified into lower or upper urinary tract infections and can be either episodic or recurrent, and either uncomplicated or complicated. A severe UTI can lead to urosepsis and septic shock, while recurrent episodes of uncomplicated UTIs are considered to be an important etiological factor for the development of chronic kidney disease. The aim of this paper was to briefly discuss the classification, symptomatology and pathophysiology of a UTI and describe the rationale for the development of some drug-related urinary tract infections. The pathophysiology of a UTI is associated with multiple, anatomical and physiological dysfunctions that predispose infection, but there are also some iatrogenic factors, including the use of certain medications, that contribute to UTI development. Among drugs associated with an increased risk of UTI development one should mention immunosuppressants, agents affecting normal voiding processes and increasing the intravesical volume of residual urine, drugs promoting lithogenesis in the urinary tract with the subsequent favouring of urinary stone formation or drugs that reduce glucose reabsorption in the kidneys, causing glycosuria (“gliflozins”). Conclusions: Therefore, a UTI may also be a specific manifestation of adverse drug reactions and it should be taken into account in the monitoring and diagnosing of druginduced disorders.