Final answer:
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are typically caused by Gram-negative bacteria like Escherichia coli, but can also be due to Gram-positive pathogens. The presence of specific substances in urine, detectable by dipstick tests, can indicate these infections. UTIs are a major health concern and are commonly treated with antibiotics.
Step-by-step explanation:
Organisms Associated with Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): The organisms commonly associated with urinary tract infections (UTIs) are primarily bacteria. Most UTIs are caused by Gram-negative bacteria such as Escherichia coli (E. coli), which is the most common pathogen involved. Other Gram-negative bacteria include Proteus vulgaris, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Additionally, some cases of cystitis, a type of UTI affecting the bladder, are caused by Gram-positive pathogens such as Staphylococcus saprophyticus, Enterococcus faecalis, and Streptococcus agalactiae. There are also organisms that are part of the normal microbiota, like Mycoplasma genitalium, Ureaplasma urealyticum, and Mycoplasma hominis, which can cause infections under certain conditions. These pathogens may cause urethritis, vaginitis, and cervicitis. UTIs are a significant health issue, leading to millions of medical visits each year, and are commonly treated with antibiotics. For rapid screening of a UTI, routine manual urinalysis is performed using a urine dipstick. The presence of nitrites, leukocyte esterase, protein, or blood on the test strip can indicate an active bacterial infection. Specific markers like nitrites might signal the presence of bacteria such as E. coli or K. pneumoniae, which convert nitrate to nitrite.