Urologie pro praxi 3/2026

Application of molecular diagnostic methods in the detection of urological and sexually transmitted infections

Urinary tract infections represent a significant health concern requiring rapid and accurate diagnostics. Traditional methods, particularly culture, remain the gold standard but have limitations in slower turnaround times and reduced sensitivity. Molecular biology techniques offer higher specificity, sensitivity, and the ability to detect non-cultivable or fastidious pathogens. They are increasingly applied not only in diagnosing common and complicated infections but also in monitoring high-risk patients, such as kidney transplant recipients. This article summarizes the principles, indications, and clinical applications of these methods, highlighting their role in the modern diagnosis of urinary tract infections.

Keywords: urinary tract infections, molecular diagnostics, PCR, next-generation sequencing, kidney transplantation, pathogen detection.