Which bacteria are frequently responsible for urinary tract infections (UTIs)?

The group of bacteria commonly known to cause urinary tract infections (UTIs) is often summarized with the acronym PEKEPS, which stands for Proteus, Escherichia coli (E. coli), Klebsiella, Enterococcus, Pseudomonas, and Staphylococcus. Among these, Escherichia coli is the most prevalent pathogen associated with uncomplicated UTIs, leading to the majority of cases.

Infections typically occur when these bacteria enter the urinary tract and multiply, resulting in inflammation and symptoms associated with UTIs, such as burning sensation during urination, frequent urination, and cloudy urine. The presence of these bacteria in urine cultures often confirms the diagnosis of a UTI.

The other bacteria listed, while they may be involved in infections elsewhere in the body, are not commonly linked to urinary tract infections. For example, Staphylococcus can cause various other infections but is not primarily a UTI pathogen compared to the bacteria included in PEKEPS. Understanding the spectrum of bacteria associated with UTIs is essential for effective treatment and management.