[Potentially uropathogenic enterobacteria on the periurethral mucosa of urologically normal individuals (author's transl)].

Swabs from the periurethra from 160 urologically normal individuals, male and female, of various age groups were examined for potentially uropathogenic enterobacteria. Children from 0--3 years constantly showed (100%) high numbers of different enterobacteria. The frequency of identification and the number of these bacteria diminished abruptly with advancing age. In adult women we found a prevalence of 15%. The periurethral flora with regard to enterobacteria is probably the result of a dynamic equilibrium between contamination and elimination. The important role of contamination is documented by the massive seeding in the 0--3 years age group and the abrupt diminuition after successful bowel training. The mechanism of elimination is unknown. Personal hygiene, the pH of the periurethral mucosa, a special antibacterial substance and the ecological equilibrium of the periurethral flora are discussed as possible factors.