-IBIS-1.5.0-
tx
urinary system
urethritis
diagnoses

definition and etiology

definition:
Infection and inflammation of the urethra

etiology:
• 10 times more common in females than males except in neonates.
• Food sensitivities should be considered as a causal or contributing factor with chronic urethritis.
• Urinary tract obstruction must always be ruled out with any UTI: urinary calculi, congenital anatomic defects, uropathy.
• In infancy most are blood- or lymphatic-borne and in children and adults, are ascending.
• Most are gram-negative bacteria (most common E. coli)

signs and symptoms

signs and symptoms:
In men:
• purulent discharge
• burning on urination
• urgency and frequency of urination
In women:
• similar to those of acute bladder infection

course and prognosis

If the course of infection is not stopped, cystitis and nephritis may follow. This condition usually resolves easily with treatment.

differential diagnosis

Physical insult to the urethra from sexual activity or other activities such as bicycling may produce burning or pain which is self-limiting.
Child abuse should be a consideration when examining a child with urinary tract complaints.


footnotes