The Role of the Gut Microbiome in Urinary Tract Infections: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Background/objectives: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) represent a substantial health concern worldwide. Although it is known that the gut can act as a reservoir for UTI-causing pathogens, the exact role of the gut microbiome in developing UTIs remains unclear. This review aims to investigate the link between the gut microbiome and UTIs and whether gut dysbiosis increases the risk of getting a UTI.

Methods: To find relevant studies, a search was conducted across three databases, PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane Library. Only records that directly described the association between the gut microbiome and UTIs were included in this review.

Results: Of the numerous studies retrieved, eight studies met the pre-set criteria and were selected for the review. The findings suggest several potential ways in which gut dysbiosis might enhance UTI susceptibility. A low gut microbiome diversity, a reduced level of bacteria involved in short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production and a high abundance of Escherichia coli (E. coli) among UTI patients all offer a reasonable explanation for the existence of a link between an altered gut microbiome and UTIs. However, contradictory study results make it difficult to verify this.

Conclusions: Research on the link between the gut microbiome and UTIs is limited, and further studies need to be carried out to substantiate this relationship, as this can bring attention to finding improved and more relevant treatment for UTIs.

Keywords: Escherichia coli; dysbiosis; gut microbiome; short-chain fatty acids; urinary tract infection.