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Differential Diagnosis for a 17-year-old male complaining of pain when urinating, feeling like glass

  • Single most likely diagnosis
    • Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): This is a common condition that can cause dysuria (painful urination), which might feel like passing glass due to the inflammation and irritation of the urinary tract.
  • Other Likely diagnoses
    • Kidney Stones (Nephrolithiasis): Small stones can cause severe pain and a feeling of discomfort or sharp pain while urinating, similar to the sensation of passing glass.
    • Urethritis: Inflammation of the urethra, often due to infection, can cause painful urination.
    • Prostatitis: Inflammation of the prostate gland can lead to painful urination, among other symptoms.
  • Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
    • Testicular Torsion: Although it primarily presents with acute testicular pain, it can sometimes cause radiating pain that might be confused with urinary symptoms. It's a medical emergency.
    • Epididymitis: Inflammation of the epididymis, which can cause pain and swelling that might be associated with urination discomfort.
    • Sepsis from a urinary source: A severe infection that can lead to life-threatening complications if not promptly treated.
  • Rare diagnoses
    • Interstitial Cystitis: A chronic condition causing bladder pressure, bladder pain, and sometimes painful urination, which could be described in various ways, including a sensation like passing glass.
    • Schistosomiasis (in endemic areas): A parasitic infection that can cause urinary symptoms, including painful urination due to the eggs of the parasite causing inflammation in the urinary tract.
    • Tuberculosis of the urinary tract: A rare condition in many parts of the world but can cause chronic pain and discomfort during urination among other symptoms.

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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