Differential Diagnosis for Acute Gross Hematuria in Females
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): This is often the most common cause of acute gross hematuria in females, particularly due to the shorter urethra which makes it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder, leading to infections that can cause bleeding.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Kidney Stones: Stones in the urinary tract can cause irritation and bleeding, leading to hematuria. The pain associated with stones often accompanies the hematuria.
- Menstrual-Related Bleeding: In some cases, menstrual blood can contaminate the urine, especially if there is significant vaginal bleeding. This is more of a consideration in the differential rather than a true urinary tract cause.
- Trauma: Physical trauma to the abdomen or pelvic area can cause injury to the urinary tract, leading to bleeding.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Cancer (Bladder, Kidney, or Ureteral): Although less common, cancers of the urinary tract can present with hematuria. Missing a diagnosis of cancer could have severe consequences, making it crucial to consider and rule out, especially in older patients or those with risk factors.
- Bleeding Disorders: Conditions like hemophilia or von Willebrand disease can lead to bleeding in various parts of the body, including the urinary tract. Identifying a bleeding disorder is critical for appropriate management.
- Vasculitis: Certain types of vasculitis, such as IgA nephropathy, can cause renal inflammation and bleeding, presenting as hematuria.
Rare Diagnoses
- Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM) or Fistula: Abnormal connections between arteries and veins can occur in the urinary tract and cause bleeding.
- Sickle Cell Disease: This condition can lead to sickling of red blood cells within the kidney, resulting in ischemia and potentially hematuria.
- Tuberculosis: Genitourinary tuberculosis is a rare cause of hematuria but should be considered, especially in endemic areas or in patients with known TB.
- Benign Tumors (e.g., Angiomyolipoma): Non-cancerous growths in the kidney can bleed and cause hematuria.