AbstractBackground and Objective: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most commonly reported infections worldwide. The diagnosis of these infections is primarily based on clinical symptoms and biochemical data. Diagnostic imaging plays an important role in the management of UTIs. The main objective of this prospective study was to evaluate and compare of sensitivity and specificity of ultrasonography and computed tomography examination in the diagnosis of UTIs.
Patients and Methods: In this study, we examined 100 cases (48 males and 52 females of varying age groups) referred with clinical suspicion of urinary tract infection to the department of radiodiagnosis, KIMS Hospital, Bangalore. After history taking and clinical examination all patients underwent urine analysis, ultrasound, and computed tomography (CT) examination.
Results: Uncomplicated cystitis followed by acute pyelonephritis (APN) was the most common type of UTI as per the results. The sensitivity and specificity of ultrasound in diagnosing uncomplicated cystitis were 88.57% and 100%, respectively, whereas, that of CT was 74.29% and 100%. The sensitivity and specificity of ultrasound in diagnosing APN were 64.51% and 100%, respectively, whereas, that of CT were 90.32% and 100%. Sensitivity and specificity of CT in diagnosing chronic pyelonephritis, renal abscess, and emphysematous pyelonephritis remained 100% throughout.
Conclusion: Ultrasound was found to be a more sensitive investigation in cases of uncomplicated cystitis than CT. CT on the other hand was found to be more sensitive and specific in the diagnosis of UTI and its complications other than uncomplicated cystitis.
