Urosepsis is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition.

It refers to a severe infection localized within the urinary tract that can potentially spread to the bloodstream, leading to a critical medical emergency. 

This condition can be particularly concerning in elderly individuals due to their increased vulnerability to infections and age-related health issues. 

According to a 2016 study in NCBI, the mortality rates for Urosepsis range from 25% to 60%.  

In this article, we will look at the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for Urosepsis in the elderly.

Symptoms of Urosepsis

Painful and frequent urination
Frequent and painful urination

Before Urosepsis develops, individuals may experience the typical Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) symptoms. 

These symptoms can include:

  • Cloudy urine
  • Difficult or painful urination, often accompanied by a burning sensation
  • Fever and chills
  • Foul-smelling urine
  • Frequent urination
  • A general feeling of illness
  • Pain during sexual intercourse
  • Urgent need to urinate

However, when these symptoms worsen and the infection spreads, it can lead to the development of Urosepsis.

The following are severe symptoms associated with Urosepsis:

  • Change in level of consciousness or alertness
  • Confusion
  • Hypothermia (low body temperature)
  • Inability to produce urine
  • Profuse sweating and unusual anxiety
  • Rapid heart rate (Tachycardia)
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Severe abdominal, pelvic, or back pain
  • Severe nausea and vomiting
  • Weak pulse
Warning:
Urosepsis is a serious infection, and if not treated, it can turn into septic shock, a life-threatening condition. Ignoring the symptoms is risky as it can cause low blood pressure and organ failure.

Causes of Urosepsis

Urosepsis typically originates from infections within the urinary tract. 

The urinary system have kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra, all of which play vital roles in maintaining the body’s waste balance. 

Infections in this system can lead to the development of Urosepsis if left untreated. Some common causes and risk factors for Urosepsis in the elderly include:

Demographic factors

Some factors that can increase the risk of Urosepsis are:

  • Gender: Females have an association with the development of bacteremic Urinary Tract Infection which can lead to Urosepsis
  • Comorbidities: Some studies report an association between comorbid conditions, such as Diabetes Mellitus, and Urosepsis

Use of indwelling catheters

Elderly individuals often require catheters, especially in hospitals or when they cannot use the bathroom. 

Improper catheter care or emptying of the bladder bag can allow microorganisms to ascend through the catheter, causing infection.

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

Enlargement of the prostate in men can obstruct urine flow, leading to urine accumulation in the bladder. 

This stagnant urine provides an environment conducive to the growth of harmful microorganisms.

Fact:
BPH is a common condition among aging men. By 50, approximately 50% of men will have some degree of BPH, which rises to about 90% of men over 80.

Escherichia coli

Community based Escherichia coli (E. coli), are common and can potentially spread, leading to Urosepsis.

E. coli can occur due to chronic urinary catheter insertion in older patients. 

Additionally, several underlying health conditions and factors, while not directly, can increase the risk of Urosepsis. 

These factors include:

  • Urinary Retention
  • Immunosuppressive Medication
  • Malignancies, such as cancer
  • Renal or Prostatic Processes

Diagnosis and treatment

Urosepsis is a critical condition that demands prompt diagnosis and treatment to improve outcomes.

Diagnosis is typically based on severe symptoms and confirmed through blood tests and urine cultures to identify the bacteria. 

Treatment of Urosepsis in the elderly should be approached with caution, considering their specific medical conditions and potential complications. 

Here is a general treatment plan for Urosepsis in elderly individuals:

Source control

Identify and address the source of infection, which is typically in the urinary tract (e.g., obstructed urinary stone, urinary catheter-related infection).

Antimicrobial treatment

Antibiotics are the primary form of treatment
Antibiotics

The healthcare provider will primarily start with empiric antibiotic therapy. 

The choice of antibiotics should be based on local resistance patterns and patient-specific factors, including allergies and previous antibiotic exposure.

Initial empiric antibiotic choices may include:

  • Piperacillin/Tazobactam or Cefotaxime (or another third-generation Cephalosporin)
  • Consider Fluoroquinolones with high urinary excretion or carbapenems in case of intolerance or known resistance patterns

Adjust antibiotics as needed, be aware of the possibility of multidrug-resistant bacteria, and adjust initial antibiotic treatment accordingly.

Stabilization of circulation

Administer vasopressors if necessary to maintain adequate blood pressure and tissue perfusion if an individual gets septic shock.

Monitor and manage organ dysfunction, particularly renal function and respiratory function.

Geriatric expert monitoring

Recognize the multimorbidity of geriatric patients and their higher risk for severe infectious diseases.

Consider early identification of high-risk patients and involve geriatric specialists for monitoring.

Recommended Article
To know the symptoms of Sepsis caused by UTI, read, Recognizing the Symptoms of Sepsis from UTI in Elderly.

Conclusion

Urosepsis in the elderly is potentially life-threatening, making them more vulnerable to infections and age-related health issues.

Urosepsis is often caused by UTI and various risk factors. 

These include demographic factors, catheter use, BPH, E.coli,and other factors indirectly contributing to its development. 

The treatment for Urosepsis involves identifying the source of infection, initiating appropriate antimicrobial therapy, ensuring hemodynamic stability, and addressing organ dysfunction. 

Furthermore, the healthcare needs of geriatric patients must be taken into account, with the early involvement of geriatric specialists.

With proper awareness and timely medical attention, the impact of Urosepsis on elderly individuals can be minimized.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can Urosepsis impact the quality of life in elderly patients?

Urosepsis can significantly impact the quality of life of elderly individuals, leading to prolonged hospitalizations, increased healthcare needs, and potential long-term complications if not promptly and effectively managed.

What causes Urosepsis in the elderly?

Urosepsis typically arises from infections within the urinary tract. Various factors, including the use of catheters, Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, kidney stones, and certain sexually transmitted diseases, can contribute to its development.

What is the survival rate of Urosepsis?

The survival rate of Urosepsis is influenced by factors such as the promptness of treatment, the patient’s health, and the severity of the infection. Early diagnosis and timely treatment significantly enhance the chances of survival. However, Urosepsis is a serious condition, and delayed or inadequate treatment can lead to complications.

What is the last stage of Urosepsis?

Urosepsis is usually divided into three stages—Sepsis, severe Sepsis, and Septic shock. If Sepsis is not managed effectively, it can advance to septic shock, the most severe stage. Septic shock causes significant drop in blood pressure, which can lead to multiple organ failure.

Citations:
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