Urethral diverticulum

A urethral diverticulum is a condition characterized by the formation of a pocket or pouch in the urethra, which is the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body. This condition can lead to a variety of symptoms and complications if not properly diagnosed and treated.

Signs and Symptoms

Individuals with a urethral diverticulum may experience a range of symptoms, including:

• Dysuria (painful urination)
• Urinary frequency and urgency
• Recurrent urinary tract infections
• Post-void dribbling
• Dyspareunia (painful intercourse)
• A palpable mass in the anterior vaginal wall

The symptoms can vary depending on the size and location of the diverticulum.

Causes

The exact cause of urethral diverticulum is not always clear, but it is believed to result from:

• Repeated infections or inflammation of the periurethral glands
• Trauma or injury to the urethra
• Congenital abnormalities

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a urethral diverticulum typically involves:

• A thorough medical history and physical examination
• Imaging studies such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or ultrasound
• Cystoscopy, which allows direct visualization of the urethra

Treatment

Treatment options for urethral diverticulum may include:

• Surgical excision of the diverticulum
• Antibiotic therapy for associated infections
• Regular follow-up to monitor for recurrence

Complications

If left untreated, a urethral diverticulum can lead to complications such as:

• Chronic urinary tract infections
• Urethral obstruction
• Formation of stones within the diverticulum

Related Pages

• Urinary tract infection
• Urethra
• Cystoscopy

Images

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Diagram of a urethral diverticulum

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Surgical view of a urethral diverticulum