Correlation of Bacteriuria and Pyuria among the suspected cases of Urinary Tract Infection in Kathmandu University Hospital

Infection of urinary tract is one of the most important infectious diseases in the world affecting all age groups across the life span. Bacteriuria and pyuria being some of the features of urinary tract infection need to be correlated. The objective of the study is to determine correlation of bacteruria with pyuria in suspected urinary tract infection. Methods: This study was conducted at Kathmandu University Hospital, Dhulikhel between September 2014 to March 2015. During this period, 272 urine samples were collected and analyzed by microscopic examination and semi-quantitative culture technique with standard microbiological methods. Results: A total of 272 urine samples were processed in which 78(28.67%) were culture positive. Among culture positive samples significant bacteriuria (i.e. ≥10 CFU/ml) was detected in 65(83.3%) of the cases whereas 13(16.7%) of the culture positive samples showed low count significant bacteriuria (i.e. 10-10 CFU/ml). Out of 58 urine samples with significant pyuria, 48(82.75%) were culture positive. Among 214 urine samples without significant pyuria, 30(14.01%) urine samples were culture positive which was significant (P value<0.05). Conclusion: The study showed that pyuria and bacteriuria had no correlation in the suspected cases of urinary tract infection. According to our findings, it is necessary to culture urine and also perform microscopic examination for the correct laboratory diagnosis of urinary tract infection