What is the differential diagnosis (DDX) for dysuria in males?

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Differential Diagnosis for Male Dysuria

The differential diagnosis for male dysuria can be organized into the following categories:

  • Single Most Likely Diagnosis
    • Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): This is the most common cause of dysuria in men, often caused by bacterial infection such as E. coli.
  • Other Likely Diagnoses
    • Urethritis: Inflammation of the urethra, often caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like gonorrhea or chlamydia.
    • Prostatitis: Inflammation of the prostate gland, which can cause dysuria, pelvic pain, and other urinary symptoms.
    • Kidney Stones: Small, hard mineral deposits that can cause severe pain and dysuria as they pass through the urinary tract.
  • Do Not Miss Diagnoses
    • Epididymitis: Inflammation of the epididymis, which can cause severe pain and dysuria, and can lead to infertility if left untreated.
    • Testicular Torsion: A medical emergency that requires prompt attention, characterized by severe pain and swelling of the testicle.
    • Pyelonephritis: A bacterial infection of the kidney, which can cause severe pain, dysuria, and systemic symptoms like fever and chills.
  • Rare Diagnoses
    • Interstitial Cystitis: A chronic condition characterized by bladder pain, dysuria, and frequent urination.
    • Bladder Cancer: A rare cause of dysuria, often associated with other symptoms like hematuria and weight loss.
    • Schistosomiasis: A parasitic infection that can cause dysuria, hematuria, and other urinary symptoms, typically seen in travelers to endemic areas.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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