| ICD-10 | N34.1 |
|---|---|
| ICD-9 | 099.4, 597 |
Non-gonococcal urethritis (NGU) is an inflammation of the urethra which is not caused by gonorrheal infection.[1]
Contents |
Symptoms
The symptoms of urethritis can include pain or a burning sensation upon urination (dysuria), a white/cloudy discharge and a feeling that one needs to pass urine frequently; however, there are often no symptoms.
Diagnosis
Historically, it has been easy to test for the presence of gonorrhea by viewing a Gram's stain of the urethral discharge under a microscope: the causative organism is distinctive in appearance. Thus, one of the major causes of urethritis can be identified by a simple common test, and the distinction between gonococcal and non-gonococcal urethritis arose historically for this reason. Identifying chlamydia, the other major cause of urethritis, has required more sophisticated technology, but is now more widely available. These two tests combined identify the cause of most treatable forms of urethritis. If tests for gonorrhea and chlamydia are negative, and the cause of the urethritis has not been otherwise identified, the term non-specific urethritis (NSU) is used. The terms "NGU" and "NSU" are sometimes used inconsistently, but these are the most common meanings in the modern era of treatment.
Treatment
Treatment is based on the prescription and use of the proper antibiotics depending on the strain of the ureaplasma.[2] Because of its multi-causative nature, initial treatment strategies involve using a broad range antibiotic that is effective against chlamydia (such as doxycycline). It is imperative that both the patient and any sexual contacts are treated. Women who are infected with the organisms that cause NGU may develop pelvic inflammatory disease. If symptoms persist, follow-up with a urologist may be necessary to identify the cause. If left untreated, complications include epididymitis and infertility. Consistent and correct use of latex condoms during sexual activity greatly reduces the likelihood of infection.
References
- ^ Nongonococcal Urethritis and Chlamydial Cervicitis: Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD): Merck Manual Home Edition. Retrieved on 2008-01-01.
- ^ Nongonococcal Urethritis (NGU) - BC HealthFile #08b. Retrieved on 2008-01-01.
