What is the differential diagnosis for a 20-year-old male experiencing suprapubic pain with urination, no discharge, and a negative urine analysis?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: April 13, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Differential Diagnosis for a 20-year-old male with suprapubic pains and urination

  • Single most likely diagnosis
    • Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): Although the urine test is negative, UTIs can sometimes present with negative urine cultures, especially if the patient has recently taken antibiotics or has a partially treated infection. The symptoms of suprapubic pain and pain with urination are classic for a UTI.
  • Other Likely diagnoses
    • Prostatitis: This is an inflammation of the prostate gland and can cause suprapubic pain, pain with urination, and sometimes fever. The absence of discharge does not rule out prostatitis.
    • Interstitial Cystitis: A condition that causes bladder pressure, bladder pain, and sometimes pelvic pain. The pain can be exacerbated by urination.
    • Overactive Bladder: This condition can cause urinary urgency, frequency, and suprapubic pain, especially if the bladder is not fully emptied during urination.
  • Do Not Miss diagnoses
    • Testicular Torsion: Although this typically presents with acute testicular pain, it can sometimes cause referred pain to the suprapubic area. This is a medical emergency that requires prompt attention.
    • Kidney Stone: A stone in the urinary tract can cause severe pain, including suprapubic pain, and may not always be detected by a urine test.
    • Appendicitis: In some cases, appendicitis can present with suprapubic pain, especially if the appendix is located near the bladder.
  • Rare diagnoses
    • Bladder Cancer: Although rare in young adults, bladder cancer can cause suprapubic pain, hematuria (which may not always be visible), and other urinary symptoms.
    • Schistosomiasis: A parasitic infection that can cause urinary symptoms, including suprapubic pain and hematuria, although this is more common in endemic areas.

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.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.