Depending on the symptoms of the patient further tests and data collection may be required. If the infection were to spread to the kidneys it could cause Kidney failure and ultimately death. An ultrasound examination can be used to check for inflammation of the kidneys and bladder. There are studies that can be done in children to identify physiological issues. There is also a specified regiment of x-rays that, with the combination of contrast dyes, can be helpful in identifying abnormalities in the bladder. A CT scan can be used to aid the mapping …show more content…
If caught early enough, it is possible to wipe out the infection. One of the more modern approaches to dealing with a UTI involves the intake of cranberry juice. Studies have shown that cranberries contain a tannin that prevents adhesins from being able to attach to or penetrate the outermost layer of the epithelium. A tannin is a combination of different molecules derived from Gallic acid, and they are common in many plant tissues, including bark, cutaneous tissues enveloping fruits, stems and seeds. Gallic acid is the primary reason that cranberry juice tastes bitter. In many cases, more commonly with women, the cells root themselves deeply into the surrounding tissues, making them impervious to antibiotic …show more content…
Urine has a low pH, and contains many inhibitory molecules that can prevent or destroy microbial growth. The mechanical advantage of urine is that the liquid can actually abrade away any colonies that are loosely adhered to the surface of the urothelial facet cells. These are the cells whose function is to provide a smooth protective barrier for younger, immature facet cells. The flow of liquid not only washes away loosely connect cells, but carries with it sugars and molecules that reduce adherence of bacterial cells. Urine also contains molecules such as lacroferrin, which depletes iron of most potential niches. Iron is an essential nutrient for E. coli to grow.
As mentioned previously, one of the initial responses to an infection is exfoliation of the outermost layer of cells. This is called the luminal surface, and these cells have a slow paced turnover rate. Meaning. It takes long periods of time before the next complete luminal surface is formed. Exfoliation is also helpful to eliminate damage caused by bacteria exploiting host cells as a site of replication and reproduction. It is not yet clear what the exact cause of exfoliation