Abstract

Background: Urinary tract infection and asymptomatic bacteriuria are commonly seen in older adults. Aim of this study was to study the pattern of UTI in elderly and also its predisposing factors.

Methods: This is a Descriptive observational study after enlisting inclusion and exclusion criteria conducted at a tertiary care centre on 60 patients aged more than 60 years after obtaining written consent. Demographic profile, clinical features, predisposing factors, laboratory features and urine culture reports were noted and analysed.

Results: Of the 60 patients studied, 60% were males and 40% females. Patients were grouped according to age groups. Fever was the major symptom. Diabetes mellitus was the most common predisposing factor associated with UTI seen in (42.7%) patients. Gram negative organism, Escherichia coli accounted for maximum cases (36.7%).

Conclusion: Gram negative bacteria, E.coli played as a most common organism in the elderly individuals and Diabetes being the most common predisposing factor. Older patients often present with varied symptoms making it difficult towards the road to diagnosis. Its of utmost importance to recognise individuals and start effective antimicrobial, accordingly.

Keywords: Ageing, Asymptomatic bacteriuria, elderly, Urinary tract infection, UTI, Symptoms, Predisposing factor.