Key Urological and Gynecological Conditions: Definitions and Causes

Dysuria

Painful urination

Enuresis

Involuntary discharge of urine; most often due to lack of bladder control

UTI

Bacteria or organisms in urethra/ureter causing painful urination and malaise

Renal failure

Reduction in kidney function; causes include shock, dehydration, trauma; increased BUN and creatinine

Pyelonephritis

Diffuse pyogenic infection of renal pelvis; most common renal disease

Nephrotic syndrome

Protein-losing kidney; protein found in urine

Polycystic kidney disease

Congenital anomaly with multiple cysts resulting in kidney failure

Gonorrhea

Contagious inflammation of genital mucous membrane; must be treated to prevent spreading

Syphilis

Serious sexually transmitted disease; infection in pregnant women can cause birth defects

HIV

Human immunodeficiency virus; transferred by sexual contact, contaminated needles, or blood transfusions

AIDS

Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome from HIV; marked by opportunistic infections; three phases: primary infection, chronic asymptomatic (~10 years), AIDS phase (death in 2-3 years)

Pelvic inflammatory disease

Inflammation and serious infection of pelvic organs; mostly in young nulliparous females

Vaginitis

Inflammation/infection of vaginal tissues with discharge

Menopause

Cessation of menstrual periods

Fibroadenoma

Common benign breast tumor; painful during menstrual period

Amenorrhea

Absence of onset of menstruation at puberty or cessation in adulthood

Endometriosis

Proliferation of endometrial tissue outside the uterus

Ectopic pregnancy

Implantation of fertilized ovum outside uterus; most commonly in fallopian tubes

Miscarriage

Spontaneous abortion; commonly a result of genetic abnormality

Placenta previa

Implantation of placenta in lower uterine segment; causes painless bleeding

Orchitis

Infection of the testes caused by viral/bacterial infection or injury

Prostatitis

Acute or chronic inflammation of prostate gland; common in men older than 50

Impotence

Failure to initiate or maintain an erection

Benign prostatic hyperplasia

Enlargement of prostate gland compressing urethra; common in men 50+