Final answer:
Pyelonephritis is a serious kidney infection that commonly occurs when bacteria from the lower gastrointestinal tract are introduced to the urinary tract. Bacterial urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common, especially in females. Diagnosis involves urine tests and treatment involves antibiotics.
Step-by-step explanation:
Pyelonephritis is a serious kidney infection that commonly occurs when bacteria from the lower gastrointestinal tract are introduced to the urinary tract. It can cause symptoms like fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, lower back pain, and frequent painful urination. Pyelonephritis is diagnosed through urine tests and treated with antibiotics.
Bacterial urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common, especially in females. The most common cause of UTIs in women is Escherichia coli, which can enter the urethra in fecal matter. UTIs in men are often associated with other conditions like an enlarged prostate or urinary catheter placement.
Diagnosis of pyelonephritis involves microscopic examination and culture of urine, as well as blood cultures to check for spread of the infection. Imaging of the kidneys may be done in high-risk patients. Treatment involves oral or intravenous antibiotics.