Purple urine in Berdon syndrome: a rare finding in the clinic laboratory

Ann Clin Biochem. 2023 Mar;60(2):142-145. doi: 10.1177/00045632231152565. Epub 2023 Jan 16.

Abstract

Introduction: Purple Urine Bag Syndrome (PUBS) is a rare disorder seen in elderly persons, wherein the urinary bag and the tubing turn in to purple colour. It is usually seen in patients who are on urinary catheters for a long time. It consists of a change in the colour of the urine that turns purple in a very specific context.

Case report: We report the case of a paediatric female patient with Berdon Syndrome with symptoms consistent with urinary tract infection and purple urine discolouration. Urine test revealed leukocyturia and bacteriuria.

Discussion: Several risk factors have been proposed regarding this syndrome. Among them the commonest are female gender, advanced age, kind of diet (increased dietary tryptophan), alkaline urine and diverse situations that leads to urinary retentions which allows bacteria to work on their substrate for a longer time. Although it is a process that is not associated with gravity, recognizing it is important as treatment is simple and can minimize patient and family distress.

Keywords: Berdon syndrome; Klebsiella oxytoca; Purple Urine Bag Syndrome; megacystis and generalized intestinal hypoperistalsis; urine tract infection.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Child
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Intestinal Pseudo-Obstruction*
  • Male
  • Tryptophan
  • Urinary Tract Infections* / diagnosis
  • Urinary Tract Infections* / microbiology

Substances

  • Tryptophan

Supplementary concepts

  • Megacystis microcolon intestinal hypoperistalsis syndrome