The infection that affects half of women and its link to antibiotic resistance
Jun 25, 2024
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Dr Jennifer Rohn discusses the mysteries of urinary tract infections (UTIs) and their link to antibiotic resistance. They delve into the challenges of detecting UTIs accurately, the harrowing experiences of those with recurring undetected UTIs, and the urgent need for research into new treatment options like the Uramune vaccine and probiotics.
UTIs can evade traditional tests and treatments, causing prolonged suffering and misdiagnosis.
Alternative treatments like D-mannose and cranberry extract show promise in managing UTIs.
Deep dives
Understanding UTIs and Their Recurrence
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can vary in severity and often require antibiotics for treatment. However, recurrent UTIs pose a challenge as they tend to return even after initial treatment. About 20 to 30% of UTIs recur within six months, with some becoming chronic and difficult to diagnose. The bacteria causing UTIs can evade traditional tests and treatments, leading to prolonged suffering and potential misdiagnosis.
Resistance and Diagnosis Challenges
Diagnosing UTIs can be problematic due to outdated testing methods that may fail to detect the presence of bacteria, especially in chronic cases. The overuse of antibiotics for UTIs contributes to antimicrobial resistance, making treatment less effective. Inaccurate diagnoses can lead to prolonged infections, as seen in cases where chronic UTIs were not initially identified, causing extended suffering for individuals.
Exploring Alternative Treatments and Future Solutions
In addition to antibiotics, alternative treatments like D-mannose and cranberry extract show some promise in managing UTIs. However, these options are not as effective as antibiotics. The introduction of potential solutions like the Uramune vaccine and probiotics offers hope for future UTI treatment, although research in this area has been limited. Awareness, education, and advocacy are crucial to addressing the complexities of UTIs, advocating for better diagnosis and tailored treatments.
Anyone who has had a urinary tract infection knows how agonising they can be. Some infections go away on their own, but many need antibiotics. Beneath the surface of this very common infection lie many mysteries, unanswered questions, and unnecessary suffering. And it gets to the heart of the challenge of tackling antimicrobial resistance. Madeleine Finlay speaks to Dr Jennifer Rohn, head of the centre for urological biology at University College London, about what we now understand about how UTIs take hold, and the complexity surrounding their treatment. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/sciencepod
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