Prognosis

Urinary tract infection (UTI) in younger men

Younger men with UTI less often have complicated infection.[12][13][25] In the absence of a complicated UTI, antibiotic therapy is more effective and results in fewer failures. Younger men have a good prognosis.

UTI in older men

Older men more often have complicated UTI. Eradication of bacteria from the urinary tract may be more difficult, but resolution can be achieved with longer courses of antibiotic therapy.[78] There is also higher likelihood of recurrent infection. This risk exists in all patients who have had UTI, but greater risk of recurrence exists in patients with complicated UTI because of the possibility of underlying structural or functional abnormalities of the urinary tract.[7][10] In addition, drug-resistant and even multidrug-resistant infections occur more often in these patients.[1][56]

Catheter-associated UTI

Indwelling catheters are associated with high risk of developing UTI. The risk exists as long as the catheter is in place.[27][79] Catheters also increase the risk of bacteremia. The prognosis remains poor, and recurrent infections are likely with chronic indwelling catheters.

Asymptomatic bacteriuria

The presence of asymptomatic bacteriuria does not alter patients' morbidity or mortality except in men requiring procedures that disrupt the urinary tract lining.[4][53] This latter group of patients may be at risk for developing bacteremia or sepsis.

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