A rare case of a necrotized urethral prolapse in a postmenopausal woman with acute urinary retention

Low Urin Tract Symptoms. 2021 Oct;13(4):505-508. doi: 10.1111/luts.12381. Epub 2021 May 5.

Abstract

Case: Urethral prolapse (UP) is a rare condition with unknown etiology. We reported on an 86-year-old woman with a normal BMI and cystocele, presented with acute urinary retention and perineal pain. A residual urine of 950 mL was measured and released by an indwelling catheter. The physical examination revealed 2 × 3 cm severely sore and purple polyp around the urethral meatus with signs of necrosis. A diagnosis of a strangulated urethral prolapse was stated.

Outcome: The patient was admitted to the Department of Urology, and treated with surgical excision using the four-quadrant excisional technique. The histopathological examination revealed a non-keratinized, inflammatory squamous epithelium. At a follow-up visit, the patient remained asymptomatic and a complete anatomical resolution was achieved.

Conclusion: UP is an uncommon, sometimes misdiagnosed condition. The management is controversial and to date no consensus exists. This clinical picture is sufficient for diagnosis and surgical excision of the prolapsed urethral mucosa is reasonable if there are signs of strangulation.

Keywords: caruncle; cystocele; postmenopausal women; urethra; urethral prolapse; urinary retention.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Mucous Membrane
  • Postmenopause
  • Prolapse
  • Urethral Diseases* / complications
  • Urethral Diseases* / diagnosis
  • Urethral Diseases* / surgery
  • Urinary Retention* / etiology