ANAEROBIC INFECTIONS OF THE URINARY-TRACT - ARE THEY BEING MISSED

Routine anaerobic culture of urine identified the urinary tract as the primary focus of sepsis in a postoperative patient with Bacteroides f ragilis septicaemia. Specimens of urine from six other symptomatic pat ients grew > 10(8) cfu/litre of a Bacteroides species in pure growth. The significance of these isolates is discussed. Multipoint technology and the availability of anaerobic work stations have facilitated anae robic culture and reduced its cost. The incorporation of anaerobic cul ture of urine into routine laboratory practice may be clinically valua ble and should be considered.