Ground cherry

Gross hematuria is a medical condition characterized by the presence of visible blood in the urine. It is a symptom of various underlying conditions, including urinary tract infections, kidney stones, and bladder cancer.

Definition

Gross hematuria refers to the presence of enough blood in the urine that it can be seen with the naked eye. This is in contrast to microscopic hematuria, where the blood is only detectable under a microscope.

Causes

There are numerous potential causes of gross hematuria. These can be broadly categorized into glomerular and non-glomerular causes. Glomerular causes are related to the kidney's filtering system, while non-glomerular causes can include issues with the bladder, ureters, or urethra.

Glomerular Causes

Glomerular causes of gross hematuria can include glomerulonephritis, which is inflammation of the kidney's filtering system, and IgA nephropathy, a kidney disease that results in blood and protein in the urine.

Non-Glomerular Causes

Non-glomerular causes can include urinary tract infections, kidney stones, bladder cancer, and trauma to the urinary tract. Certain medications, such as anticoagulants, can also cause gross hematuria.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of gross hematuria typically involves a urinalysis to confirm the presence of blood in the urine. Further diagnostic tests may include a cystoscopy, ultrasound, or CT scan to identify the underlying cause.

Treatment

Treatment for gross hematuria depends on the underlying cause. For example, urinary tract infections may be treated with antibiotics, while kidney stones may require lithotripsy or surgery. In cases of bladder cancer, treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy.

See Also

• Microscopic hematuria
• Urinary tract infections
• Kidney stones
• Bladder cancer