Alternative Names
Urethral syndrome; NGU; Non-gonococcal urethritis
Definition of Urethritis
Urethritis is swelling and irritation (inflammation) of the urethra. The urethra is the tube that carries urine from the body.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Urethritis may be caused by bacteria or a virus. The same bacteria that cause () and some sexually transmitted diseases (, ) can lead to urethritis. Viral causes of urethritis include and cytomegalovirus.
Symptoms
In men:
Signs and tests
The health care provider will perform a physical examination. In men, the exam will include the abdomen, bladder area, penis, and scrotum. The physical exam may show:
Treatment
The goals of therapy are to:
Expectations (prognosis)
With the correct diagnosis and treatment, urethritis usually clears up without any complications.
Review
Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine; and Scott Miller, MD, Urologist in private practice in Atlanta, Georgia. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. – 9/3/2010
