What kind of medical evaluation would typically investigate urinary tract infections?

A urinalysis is a key diagnostic tool used to evaluate urinary tract infections (UTIs). This test analyzes a sample of urine to identify the presence of bacteria, white blood cells, and nitrites, which can indicate an infection. It also checks for signs of other underlying issues, such as kidney stones or blood in the urine.

While other options may play a role in diagnosing or understanding urinary tract issues, they are not the primary method for investigating UTIs. For example, cystoscopy involves using a camera to examine the bladder and urethra and may be used in more complicated cases or for chronic urinary problems. CT scans provide detailed images of the urinary tract and can evaluate more complex issues, but they are not first-line tests for diagnosing UTIs. Ultrasound can be used to assess the urinary tract for structural abnormalities or obstructions, but it does not specifically test for infection.

Overall, a urinalysis is the standard approach for the initial assessment and diagnosis of urinary tract infections, making it the correct choice.