Final answer:
An infection of the renal parenchyma, renal pelvis, and ureters is classified as an upper UTI or pyelonephritis, a serious condition that requires immediate antibiotic treatment.
Step-by-step explanation:
The classification of urinary tract infection (UTI) that is described as infection of the renal parenchyma, renal pelvis, and ureters is upper UTI. Upper UTI refers to infections that affect the upper part of the urinary system, which includes the kidneys and the ureters. In contrast, lower UTI refers to infections that affect the lower part of the urinary system, which includes the bladder and the urethra.
Upper UTIs involve the parts of the urinary system that are higher up, such as the kidneys and ureters. This type of UTI is also known as pyelonephritis, which can be a serious condition. It's often caused by fecal bacteria such as Escherichia coli that travel from the lower urinary tract to the upper tract. Symptoms of an upper UTI might include fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, lower back pain, and frequent painful urination. If left untreated, it can lead to systemic complications like bacteremia, which can be life-threatening. Therefore, upper UTIs usually require prompt treatment with antibiotics to clear the infection and prevent further complications.