Urinary tract infections in the 1980s.

A better understanding of the pathophysiology of urinary infection has markedly altered treatment programs. Single-dose therapy should be used for infections limited to the bladder. In contrast, treatment periods of 4-6 wk are needed to yield the best cure rates in upper tract infections. TMP/SMX thrice weekly has proved to be a successful prophylactic program for women with recurrent urinary infection. In contrast to the female, young children and men require longer therapy periods for urinary infection and should always have a detailed radiologic and urologic evaluation to eliminate the possibility of structural abnormalities.