Differential Diagnosis for Burning while Urinating and Vaginal Discharge
- Single most likely diagnosis:
- Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): This is the most common cause of burning while urinating, and vaginal discharge can be a secondary symptom due to the close proximity of the urethra and vagina, allowing bacteria to spread.
- Other Likely diagnoses:
- Yeast Infection (Candidiasis): Characterized by itching, redness, and a white, clumpy discharge, which can cause discomfort during urination if the infection spreads to the urinary tract.
- Bacterial Vaginosis (BV): Although primarily causing vaginal discharge, BV can lead to urinary symptoms if the bacteria ascend into the urinary tract.
- Trichomoniasis: A sexually transmitted infection that can cause vaginal discharge, itching, and burning during urination.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.):
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): A serious infection of the female reproductive organs that can cause severe complications if not treated promptly, including infertility and chronic pain.
- Gonorrhea and Chlamydia: Sexually transmitted infections that can cause burning during urination and vaginal discharge, and if left untreated, can lead to severe complications like PID and infertility.
- Kidney Stones: Although less common, kidney stones can cause severe pain and burning during urination, and if obstructing the urinary tract, can lead to serious complications.
- Rare diagnoses:
- Vulvar Cancer: A rare type of cancer that can cause vaginal discharge and burning during urination, especially if the cancer involves the urethra.
- Foreign Body in the Urinary Tract: Although rare, a foreign object in the urinary tract can cause burning during urination and potentially lead to infection or other complications.
- Interstitial Cystitis: A chronic condition causing bladder pressure, bladder pain, and sometimes pelvic pain, which can be mistaken for a UTI but has a different treatment approach.