Differential Diagnosis for a 47-year-old Male with Urinary Retention

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): This condition is common in men of this age group and can cause urinary retention due to the enlargement of the prostate gland, which compresses the urethra.

Other Likely Diagnoses

• Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): UTIs can cause irritation and inflammation of the bladder and urethra, leading to symptoms of urinary retention.
• Prostatitis: Inflammation of the prostate gland can cause urinary symptoms, including retention.
• Neurogenic Bladder: Conditions affecting the nerves that control bladder function, such as diabetes or spinal cord injuries, can lead to urinary retention.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

• Prostate Cancer: Although less common than BPH, prostate cancer can also cause urinary retention and must be ruled out due to its potential severity.
• Spinal Cord Compression: Conditions such as spinal stenosis or tumors can compress the spinal cord, affecting bladder control and leading to retention.
• Urethral Stricture: Narrowing of the urethra can cause obstructive symptoms, including urinary retention.

Rare Diagnoses

• Bladder Neck Contracture: Scarring at the bladder neck can cause obstruction and retention.
• Urethral Stones: Stones in the urethra can obstruct urine flow, leading to retention.
• Interstitial Cystitis: A chronic condition causing bladder inflammation and potentially leading to urinary retention, though it's more commonly associated with frequency and urgency.