Urogenital tuberculosis

Urogenital tuberculosis' is a form of tuberculosis (TB) that affects the urogenital system, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, urethra, and reproductive organs. It is a type of extrapulmonary tuberculosis, meaning it occurs outside the lungs.

Epidemiology

Urogenital tuberculosis is more common in regions with high prevalence of pulmonary tuberculosis. It is estimated that 2-20% of patients with pulmonary tuberculosis may develop urogenital tuberculosis. The disease can affect individuals of all ages but is more commonly seen in adults.

Pathophysiology

The causative agent of urogenital tuberculosis is Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The infection typically spreads from the lungs to the urogenital system via the bloodstream. The kidneys are usually the first organs to be affected, and the infection can then spread to other parts of the urogenital system.

Clinical Features

Symptoms of urogenital tuberculosis can vary depending on the organs involved. Common symptoms include:

• Hematuria (blood in urine)
• Dysuria (painful urination)
• Flank pain
• Frequent urination
• Pelvic pain
• Infertility in both men and women

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of urogenital tuberculosis involves a combination of clinical evaluation, laboratory tests, and imaging studies. Common diagnostic methods include:

• Urine culture for Mycobacterium tuberculosis
• Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests
• Intravenous pyelogram (IVP)
• Ultrasound
• Computed tomography (CT) scan

Treatment

The treatment of urogenital tuberculosis involves a combination of antitubercular drugs over a prolonged period, typically 6-9 months. The standard regimen includes:

• Isoniazid
• Rifampicin
• Pyrazinamide
• Ethambutol

In some cases, surgical intervention may be required to manage complications such as strictures or abscesses.

Complications

If left untreated, urogenital tuberculosis can lead to severe complications, including:

• Renal failure
• Hydronephrosis
• Bladder dysfunction
• Infertility

Prevention

Preventive measures for urogenital tuberculosis include early detection and treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis, vaccination with BCG vaccine, and public health measures to reduce the spread of tuberculosis.

See Also

• Tuberculosis
• Extrapulmonary tuberculosis
• Renal tuberculosis
• Bladder tuberculosis