Question Title: What are the signs of Urethral Cancer

Posted by Kelli Baugh on April 19, 1999 at 19:46:36

My mom in the past month has not been able to urinate without the
aid of a catheter. One day she woke up and couldn't go the bathroom.
She went to the docter and they inserted a catheter. When she had it
removed a few days later,she had to go back in the ER that night and have another one put in. This has been going on for quiet a while. The docter finally gave up and taught her how to put one in herself the visits became so frequent.
She has an appointment with a Urologist this week. Could this be a sign
of cancer? The docter she has been going to says he has never heard of anything like this and has recommended this Urologist. Please answer my questionj,
I am very worried.

Sincerely,

Kelli Baugh

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Posted by HFHS M.D.-BE on April 22, 1999 at 12:13:20

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Dear Kelli,
It is good that your mother has an appointment with the urologist, because a urologist is the appropriate physician to evaluate this problem. The history you have given is suggestive of urinary retention. Physical examination and a thorough history are invaluable diagnostic tools. This is a condition characterized by the inability to empty one's own bladder. There are multiple causes for this condition, including, but not limited to:
Anatomic obstruction (such as urethral stricture, bladder neck contracture, and, also for men, prostate enlargement or prostate cancer)
Neurologic disease
Drug induced (certain medications may affect bladder function)
Hysteria and emotional upheaval

When your mother meets with the urologist, s/he will fully evaluate your mother's condition, and will probably order tests to help determine the appropriate course of treatment.

This information is provided for general medical educational purposes only. Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options pertaining to your specific medical condition. More individualized care is available at the Henry Ford Hospital and its satellites (1 800 653-6568).

Sincerely,
HFHS M.D.-BE
*keyword: urinary retention

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