UTI Diagnosis
The following procedures and assays are used to diagnose UTI:
Analysing a urine sample – Your physician may need a sample of your urine to test for the presence of red blood cells (casts), white blood cells, or microorganisms. In order to prevent possible contamination of the urine sample, the physician may instruct you to clean your genital area with an antiseptic pad before collecting the urine sample midstream.
Laboratory cultivation of urinary tract bacteria – Occasionally, a urine culture supports laboratory analysis of the urine sample. These tests will assist your doctor in identifying the microorganisms responsible for your UTI and the medications that will be most effective against them.
Creating images of your urinary tract – If your doctor believes that your recurrent urinary tract infections are caused by an abnormality or blockage in your urinary tract, you may undergo a computerised tomography (CT) scan, an ultrasound, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In addition, the physician may use a contrast dye to highlight the various structures and organs in the urinary tract.
If you have recurrent UTI, your doctor may perform a cystoscopy, in which a long, thin tube with a lens (cystoscope) is used to examine the linings of your bladder and urethra. The catheter is inserted through the urethra and into the bladder.
