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Differential Diagnosis for Urinary Retention

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): Although the patient is relatively young, BPH can occur in men in their 30s. Sudden onset urinary retention can be a presenting symptom, especially if there's a significant increase in prostate size.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Urethral Stricture: This condition can cause obstructive urinary symptoms, including sudden onset urinary retention, especially if the stricture is new or has recently worsened.
  • Neurogenic Bladder: Conditions affecting the nerves controlling the bladder, such as multiple sclerosis or a spinal cord tumor, can lead to urinary retention. However, other neurological symptoms might also be present.
  • Medication Side Effects: Certain medications, like anticholinergics, decongestants, and some antidepressants, can cause urinary retention as a side effect.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Spinal Cord Compression: This is a medical emergency that can cause sudden onset urinary retention. It could be due to a tumor, abscess, or disc herniation.
  • Cauda Equina Syndrome: A condition where the nerves in the spinal canal are compressed, leading to urinary retention, among other symptoms. It requires immediate medical attention.
  • Acute Urinary Retention due to Stones: Although the patient reports no pain, a stone could potentially cause obstruction leading to urinary retention.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Bladder Neck Contracture: A condition where the bladder neck narrows, potentially causing obstructive urinary symptoms, including urinary retention.
  • Malignancy: Prostate, bladder, or urethral cancer can cause urinary retention, though these would be less common in a healthy 37-year-old male without other symptoms.
  • Diabetic Neuropathy: Although less common in a previously healthy individual, new-onset diabetes could potentially cause neuropathy affecting bladder function.

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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