Recurrent Bacterial Cystitis in Women

Abstract

Recurrent bacterial cystitis is defined as recurrent significant bacteriuria (more than 10⁵organisms per ml of a single organism), with significant pyuria (more than ten white blood cells per ml), in the absence of upper tract pathology. “Recurrent” is usually taken to mean more than three proven UTIs in the last 5 years. (Because the abbreviation RBC usually applies to red blood cells, “UTI” is used here.) If upper urinary tract disorders are causing the UTI, then referral to a urologist is required. Also, if there is no upper tract disorder, but the patient has recurrent bouts of hematuria associated with the UTI, then urology referral is also indicated. Recurrent UTI is common in urogynecological patients. About 4 % of women aged 15–65 have significant bacteriuria at any given time (Kass et al. [2]), and the prevalence rises with age. About 25 % of women experience at least one proven recurrence within 6 months of the first attack [1].