- Typically gram negatives (e coli in particular) that enter bladder thru urethra
- Can be other GNRs (including resistant organisms), enterococcus, other
- Stasis for any reason→ e.g. bph
- Foreign bodies→ stones or catheters
- Females→ short urethra, micro trauma from intercourse
- Acute onset
- Dysuria
- Frequency
- Sometimes supra-pubic discomfort w/palpation