What is the cause of pain at the tip of the penis and dysuria (difficulty urinating) with associated cystitis (bladder pain)?

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Last updated: April 30, 2025 • View editorial policy

Differential Diagnosis for Pain on Tip of Penis and Bladder Pain

  • Single Most Likely Diagnosis + Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): This is a common condition that can cause pain in the bladder and, in men, can also cause pain at the tip of the penis due to urethral involvement.
  • Other Likely Diagnoses + Prostatitis: Inflammation of the prostate gland can cause bladder pain and pain at the tip of the penis, especially during urination. + Urethritis: Inflammation of the urethra, often due to infection, can cause pain while urinating and discomfort at the tip of the penis. + Interstitial Cystitis: A condition causing bladder pressure, bladder pain, and sometimes pelvic pain, which could radiate to the penis.
  • Do Not Miss Diagnoses + Testicular Torsion: Although it primarily causes testicular pain, it's a medical emergency that could potentially cause referred pain to the penis or bladder area if the torsion affects surrounding structures. + Epididymitis: Inflammation of the epididymis (the tube at the back of the testicle that stores and carries sperm) can cause severe pain that might be felt in the penis or bladder area. + Kidney Stones: While primarily causing flank pain, large stones could potentially cause pain that radiates to the bladder or penis, especially if they are moving down the ureter.
  • Rare Diagnoses + Peyronie's Disease: A condition characterized by the development of fibrous scar tissue inside the penis, leading to curved, painful erections. + Penile Cancer: A rare type of cancer that could cause pain and other symptoms like ulcers or discharge. + Reiter's Syndrome (Reactive Arthritis): A form of arthritis that occurs as a reaction to a bacterial infection in another part of the body, often causing symptoms like urethritis, conjunctivitis, and arthritis, which could include penile and bladder pain.

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