Urethritis
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Urethritis Diagnosis & Tests
A thorough physical examination of genitourinary tract needs to be performed.
For men, this includes abdomen, flank, suprapubic (bladder) area, penile, scrotal and digital rectal exams. These exams may reveal tender and enlarged inguinal lymph nodes (groin area), discharge from the penis, and/or a tender and swollen penis.
Tests and findings:
- Triple-void urine specimens for urinalysis and culture
- #1 initial stream
- #2 mid-stream
- #3 post (after) prostatic massage by examiner
- Increased WBCs (inflammatory cells) and bacterial growth on culture in urine #1.
- Blood may be noted in urine #1.
- Cultures are obtained for gonorrhea and chlamydia.
For women, evaluation includes thorough abdominal and pelvic exams, evaluating for lower abdominal tenderness, uterine and adnexal tenderness, and purulent discharge from the urethra or cervix. Microscopic examination of the discharge may also aid in the diagnosis.
Laboratory tests include:
- Pregnancy test
- Urine analysis and culture
- CBC (complete blood count), C-reactive protein
- STD-specific cultures and blood tests
- Pelvic ultrasound
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