ABSTRACT
In this chapter, we look at diseases that occur in the urinary and reproductive systems, collectively called the genitourinary system. This system, which is open to the outside environment, is the third of the three major portals by which pathogens enter the body. As we will see, some urinary tract infections (UTIs) begin in the urethra and can travel up to the bladder and in severe situations even to the kidneys. The outcome of these infections can be severe and potentially life-threatening. We will also look at a variety of reproductive system infections, many of which are designated sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Infections of the genitourinary system can be caused by bacteria, viruses, yeast, and protozoan organisms. Our discussions will be divided into the urinary and reproductive systems, keeping in mind that the anatomy of these systems has a role in the kinds of infection that occur. We discussed protozoan genitourinary infection in Chapter 14 and won’t repeat it here.
