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Acute urinary retention

Case contributed by Bruno Di Muzio
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

A patient complaining of diffuse abdominal pain.

Patient Data

Age: 80 years
Gender: Female

CT Abdomen and pelvis

ct

CT scan shows a distended bladder associated with bilateral mild ureterohydronephrosis. No other relevant findings. 

Case Discussion

An inadequate clinical examination failed to perceive a mild abdominal distention in the hypogastric region and a history of recent absence of urination. The patient was catheterized and obtained relief of symptoms

Acute urinary retention, as in this case, is usually managed clinically, without image evaluation. Immediate management requires bladder decompression with catheterization. 

Anatomical and functional disturbs listed as causes for acute urinary retention, such as infection, post-operative pain, and operative analgesia or anesthetic (e.g. epidural). 

 

 

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