Exploration Of Nonspecific Patterns In Urinary Tract Infection Symptoms Across Different Age And Gender Groups (H/R) - A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) remain among the most prevalent bacterial infections worldwide, yet their clinical presentation varies widely across demographic groups. Recognizing nonspecific symptom patterns in different populations is crucial for timely diagnosis and management, particularly among vulnerable age groups where symptoms may be atypical. Objective: This study aimed to examine the distribution of specific and nonspecific urinary tract infection symptoms across age and gender groups, identifying demographic patterns and their implications for clinical practice. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted over eight months at a tertiary care hospital in Lahore, Pakistan, including 260 participants aged one year and above with clinically suspected or laboratory-confirmed UTI. Data were collected using structured questionnaires, physical examinations, and laboratory analyses including urinalysis and urine culture. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 26. Descriptive statistics summarized demographic and clinical data, while chi-square and ANOVA tests evaluated group differences. Binary logistic regression identified predictors of nonspecific symptom presentation, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Ethical approval was obtained from the institutional review board of the relevant institute. Results: Of 260 participants, 62.3% were female and the mean age was 36.4 ± 21.8 years. Specific symptoms were reported in 55.8% of cases, while 44.2% presented nonspecific features such as fever, malaise, and weakness. Nonspecific symptoms predominated among children (57.9%) and the elderly (66.7%), whereas specific symptoms were more frequent in adults (64.5%) (p < 0.001). Logistic regression identified age ≥ 60 years (OR 2.54, 95% CI 1.42–4.51), comorbidities (OR 1.91, 95% CI 1.07–3.39), and female gender (OR 1.48, 95% CI 1.03–2.12) as independent predictors of nonspecific presentations. Conclusion: Nonspecific urinary tract infection symptoms are common among pediatric and elderly populations, posing diagnostic challenges. Awareness of demographic symptom variability may improve diagnostic accuracy and ensure timely management across diverse patient groups.