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EVOLUTION

Evaluating a New Diagnostic Test for Urinary Tract Infections to Guide Better Antibiotic Prescribing

Background and study aims

The EVOLUTION Trial is testing a new way to diagnose and treat urinary tract infections more quickly and accurately. It could improve outcomes for women and protect antibiotics for the future.

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection that affects the bladder or waterworks. UTIs are very common, and many people are given antibiotics to help treat them. But not every UTI is caused by bacteria, so antibiotics do not always help. Taking antibiotics when they are not needed can cause side effects and can make antibiotics work less well in the future.

The EVOLUTION study is looking at a new, quick urine test known as the Sysmex-Astrego PA-100 system, that can be done in the GP surgery or pharmacy. This test can show if bacteria are likely to be causing symptoms and which antibiotic is most likely to work in approximately 45 minutes. We want to see if using this new test, alongside usual NHS care, can help reduce unnecessary antibiotic use while still helping people get better safely.

By taking part, patients can help the NHS learn how to give people the right treatment at the right time.

Who can participate:

Adults registered at a participating GP practice or pharmacy can take part if they were assigned female at birth, are aged 18 or over, and have symptoms of a suspected urinary tract infection.

What does the study involve: 

If a patient chooses to join:

  1. They will be asked to give a urine sample.
  2. They will complete a short questionnaire about their symptoms.
  3. They will be put into one of two groups by chance (like flipping a coin):
    1. Usual NHS care, or
    2. Usual NHS care plus the new urine test
  4. For the next 28 days, the patient will fill in a very short online diary about how their symptoms change. Most people find this takes only a minute or two.
  5. will receive a £20 voucher as a thank you for their contribution

Trial Team

Expected project end date

31 July 2028