Non-gonococcal urethritis

Non-Gonococcal Urethritis

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Microscopic view of bacteria commonly associated with non-gonococcal urethritis.

Non-gonococcal urethritis (NGU) is a condition characterized by inflammation of the urethra not caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, the agent responsible for gonorrhea. NGU is a common type of urethritis and is often classified as a sexually transmitted infection (STI).

Overview

NGU occurs when the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body, becomes inflamed due to infection by bacteria other than Neisseria gonorrhoeae.

Causes

The most common causes of NGU include:

• Chlamydia trachomatis, the bacteria responsible for chlamydia
• Mycoplasma genitalium, a less common cause
• Ureaplasma species
• Trichomonas vaginalis (in rare cases)

Other causes can be non-infectious, such as irritation from products or physical trauma.

Symptoms

Symptoms of NGU may include:

• Pain or burning during urination
• Discharge from the penis or vagina
• Itching or irritation at the urethra opening
• Sometimes, the infection may be asymptomatic

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of NGU involves:

• A physical examination
• Analysis of discharge from the urethra
• Urine tests or urethral swabs to identify the causative organism

Treatment

Treatment typically includes:

• Antibiotics, tailored to the specific causative organism
• Partners of infected individuals should also be treated to prevent reinfection

Prevention

Prevention strategies include:

• Safe sexual practices, including the use of condoms
• Regular STI screening, particularly for sexually active individuals

Non-gonococcal urethritis Resources
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