Complicated Escherichia coli bacterial infection of the canine genitourinary system: clinical case

Abstract

Some strains of Escherichia coli are pathogenic in dogs and cats, causing gastrointestinal and extraintestinal diseases, including urogenital tract infections. The presence of extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBL), an enzyme produced by gramnegative bacteria, makes these bacteria resistant to almost all β-lactam antibiotics (penicillin’s, cephalosporins), significantly complicating the treatment of the infectious process. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by bacterial pathogens are among the most common infections in dogs. Their development is often associated with the migration of bacteria through the genital tract and urethra into the bladder. Sources of infection can include the perianal area contaminated with bacterial biota, as well as overhanging skin in the area of the loop (depressed loop) in females. The spread of bacteria to the bladder, involving the ureters and kidneys, is a complicated, lifethreatening pathology. Clinically significant infection implies the presence of clinical abnormalities and is characterized by dysuria, stranguria, hematuria, pollakiuria and/or frequent urination, as well as the presence of bacteria in the urine. However, long-term, chronic bacterial infections may have minimal clinical signs and remain undetected for a long time. Accurate and timely diagnosis is crucial for UTI treatment. It allows for the determination of both the need for antimicrobial medications and their optimal dosage. This includes an assessment of the patient's condition, a thorough examination, and collection of a clinically relevant history, which must include information about previous surgeries, blood and albumin transfusions, as well as previously diagnosed and concomitant diseases, complaints, and symptoms. When collecting the history, it is also important to clarify any previously prescribed antibacterial medications and the duration of their use. To effectively treat UTIs, it is necessary to identify the predominant bacterial pathogens and their susceptibility to antibacterial agents. A urine culture will be key to establishing a diagnosis and therapeutic strategy.