Differential Diagnosis of Hematuria in Urinary Catheter
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Trauma from catheterization: This is the most common cause of hematuria in patients with a urinary catheter. The insertion of the catheter can cause minor trauma to the urethral mucosa or bladder, leading to bleeding.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Urinary tract infection (UTI): Bacterial infections can cause inflammation and irritation of the urinary tract, leading to hematuria.
- Bladder stones or kidney stones: Stones in the urinary tract can cause bleeding due to irritation or obstruction.
- Catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI): Prolonged use of a urinary catheter increases the risk of developing a UTI, which can cause hematuria.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Bladder cancer: Although less common, bladder cancer can cause hematuria and is a critical diagnosis not to miss due to its significant implications for patient outcomes.
- Kidney disease or glomerulonephritis: Certain kidney diseases can cause hematuria and require prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent progression.
- Sepsis: In rare cases, hematuria can be a sign of sepsis, particularly if the patient has a urinary tract infection that has spread to the bloodstream.
Rare Diagnoses
- Bleeding disorders: Conditions such as hemophilia or von Willebrand disease can increase the risk of bleeding, including hematuria, in patients with a urinary catheter.
- Vascular malformations: Rare vascular anomalies in the urinary tract can cause hematuria.
- Medication-induced hematuria: Certain medications, such as anticoagulants or some antibiotics, can increase the risk of bleeding, including hematuria.