Our Team
 Home
Urological Conditions
Pediatric Urology
Urologic Oncology
 Home
Research & Innovation
Prevention
 Home
Appointments
 Home
Fellowship
 Home
Residency

 

More Information
Urology News
Urology Clinical Trials

 

Urology

Urological Conditions

Urinary Tract

Types of Urinary Tract Infections

Urinary tract infections are caused by harmful bacteria that get into the urinary system. (For more details, see causes, risk factors and prevention of urinary tract infections.) Usually, a UTI begins in the urethra and travels to the bladder. From the bladder it can travel up to the kidneys. Urinary tract infections are identified by their location.

  • Cystitis is an infection or inflammation of the bladder. This is the most common type of UTI.
  • Urethritis is an infection or inflammation of the urethra.
  • Pyelonephritis is an infection in the kidneys. This is the most serious type of UTI because if it is not treated in time, it can enter the bloodstream and infect other parts of the body.

UTIs are often categorized as simple (uncomplicated) or complicated. Complicated UTIs are more severe, either because of their location (kidney infections are usually considered complicated) or the bacteria causing them resist ordinary antibiotics.