Differential Diagnosis for Hematuria in a 53-year-old Man
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): This condition is common in men over 50 and can cause hematuria due to urinary tract obstruction and subsequent bladder outlet obstruction, leading to increased pressure on the bladder and urinary tract.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): Bacterial infections can cause inflammation and irritation of the urinary tract, leading to hematuria.
- Kidney Stones: Small stones can cause microscopic hematuria, and the presence of 6-8 red blood cells in the urine is consistent with this diagnosis.
- Prostatitis: Inflammation of the prostate gland can cause hematuria, especially if the inflammation is severe.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Bladder Cancer: Although less likely, bladder cancer can cause hematuria, and it is essential to rule out this diagnosis, especially in older adults.
- Kidney Cancer: Similar to bladder cancer, kidney cancer can cause hematuria, and it is crucial to consider this diagnosis to avoid missing a potentially life-threatening condition.
- Glomerulonephritis: This group of diseases can cause inflammation of the glomeruli, leading to hematuria, and some forms can be severe and require prompt treatment.
Rare Diagnoses
- Alport Syndrome: A genetic disorder that affects the type IV collagen in the kidneys, leading to hematuria and progressive kidney disease.
- Sickle Cell Disease: A genetic disorder that can cause sickling of red blood cells in the kidneys, leading to hematuria.
- Vasculitis: Inflammation of the blood vessels can cause hematuria, although this is a rare cause of microscopic hematuria.
- Trauma: Although unlikely without a history of trauma, it is essential to consider this diagnosis, especially if the patient has experienced any recent injury.