What are the common bacteria found in urine?

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From the Research

Common Bacteria Found in Urine

  • Escherichia coli (E. coli) is the most predominant pathogen causing 80-90% of community-acquired UTIs and 30-50% of nosocomially-acquired UTIs 1
  • Staphylococcus saprophyticus, Enterococcus faecalis, and Streptococcus agalactiae are also common Gram-positive uropathogens 2
  • Other bacteria such as Aerococcus, Corynebacterium, Actinobaculum, and Gardnerella can also cause UTIs, although they are less common 2
  • Uncultivated bacteria are also present in the adult female bladder, and their presence is widespread among women 3

Bacterial Characteristics

  • Phylogenetic group B2 is the most predominant group among primary infecting E. coli, and is associated with susceptibility to many antimicrobials 1
  • Phylogenetic group A is associated with resistance to many antimicrobials and multidrug resistant (MDR) strains 1
  • Biofilm formation capacity is higher in primary infecting E. coli that cause persistence or relapse of UTI 1
  • Certain virulence factor genes (VFGs) such as adhesins, iron-uptake systems, and toxins are associated with persistence or relapse of UTI 1

Urine Culture and Diagnosis

  • A urine culture with ≥ 10(5) CFU/ml is classically considered as positive, although lower counts are valued in certain clinical settings 4
  • The development of antimicrobial resistance affects uropathogens, mainly E. coli, which remains the most frequently isolated in urine cultures 4
  • Factors related to urine culture count, such as methods to obtain urine, conservation of the sample, or use of chemical preservatives, are critical points to be discussed in detail 4

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This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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