Urogential tuberculosis
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
Urogenital tuberculosis is a form of tuberculosis that affects the urogenital system.
Epidemiology
It usually strikes young adults with tuberculosis in other places of the body as well. It is common in Asia, but less common in sub-Saharan Africa.
Symptoms
- Persistent cystitis, unresponsive to antibiotics.
- Urinary frequency
- Dysuria
- Loin discomfort
- Malaise and general symptoms of tuberculosis
- Ulcer
However, the infection arises insidiously, being potentially asymptomatic for a long period of time.
Other signs
- Pus cells and red cells in the urine, but no bacterial growth on routine bacterial culture
- Painless intermittent microscopic haematuria
- A painless, non-tender, irregular, and sometimes fluctuating mass on one side of the scrotum.
Pathogenesis
The infection may affect the kidneys, ureter and bladder and may cause significant damage to each.
Complications
Urogenital tuberculosis may cause strictures of the ureter, which, however, may heal when infection is treated.