Urinary Tract Infection (Chronic): Case Study
A urinary tract infection (UTI) can affect any part of the urinary tract, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. UTIs are most often caused by the gram negative bacteria Escherichia coli (E. coli), but other microorganisms can also be responsible.
In the context of UTIs, bacteria can form biofilms on the inner lining of the urinary tract, particularly on surfaces such as catheters or the bladder wall. Biofilms are communities of microorganisms that adhere to surfaces and are encased within a self-produced extracellular matrix. They provide protection and a favorable environment for bacteria to thrive, making them more resistant to antibiotics and the body's natural defense mechanisms. Biofilm formation frequently contributes to recurrent or persistent UTIs and complicates their treatment.
Practitioner: Michelle Ross, MS, MA, CNS, LDN, IFMCP
Dates of Protocol: January 2021 - August 2021
Patient Data: 50-year-old female
Case History:
Patient presented with frequent urinary tract infections and chronic joint and muscle pain.
Lab Findings:
- Elevated LPS antibodies
- Gluten, wheat, dairy, and soy sensitivities
- Gut inflammation (Beta-defensin 2, MMP 9)
- Low pancreatic elastase
- Bacteria markers associated with SIBO (methane and hydrogen)
Pre-Protocol Vibrant Wellness Gut Zoomer:
Pre-Protocol Urinalysis:
Pre-Protocol Vibrant Wellness Wheat Zoomer:
Protocol
Supplements:
- Biocidin® LSF – 6 pumps per day
- G.I. Detox®+ – 2 capsules once a day; additional capsules, if needed
- Olivirex® – 4 capsules per day
- Proflora® 4R – 1 capsule per day
Topical application for one month:
- Before bed:
- One pump of Biocidin LSF topically to the vulva
- One capsule inserted vaginally
- As needed if burning symptoms with urination were present, one pump of Biocidin LSF topically to the vulva
Diet Recommendations:
- Eliminate gluten, wheat, dairy, and soy
- Increase prebiotic and nutrient dense foods
- 30 different plant-based foods in a variety of colors
- Increase herbs and spices
- Quality protein and fats
*Patient also chose to eliminate grains for a few months during the protocol
Lifestyle Recommendations:
- Prioritize sleep
- Optimize hydration
- Reduce stress & cultivate a wellness mindset
- Movement within tolerance
Additional Therapeutics:
- The patient had been using D-Mannose for UTI prevention before consulting the practitioner. It did not resolve or prevent UTIs but she continued to use it during the protocol.
Outcome:
The patient achieved symptom resolution despite mildly elevated LPS antibody levels on the retest. She was encouraged to continue using Biocidin LSF and G.I. Detox+ orally and to retest in three months. She remained symptom-free until December 2022 when she had knee replacement surgery and developed an UTI after receiving post-surgical antibiotics.
Patient selected to take antibiotics to address the acute UTI. At the last appointment on November 2, 2023, the patient declined follow-up testing, citing continued symptom resolution and financial reasons.
Post-Protocol Intestinal Permeability Panel: