Which pain could suggest a lower urinary tract infection?

Prepare for the ScribeAmerica Hospitalist Exam. Dive into flashcards, multiple-choice questions with hints and detailed explanations. Master the exam!

Suprapubic pain is indicative of a lower urinary tract infection (UTI) because it typically arises from irritation or inflammation in the bladder or urethra, which are components of the lower urinary tract. When a UTI occurs, the infection can lead to symptoms such as dysuria (painful urination), increased urinary frequency, and urgency, alongside suprapubic discomfort due to the bladder’s location in the pelvis.

In contrast, flank pain is generally associated with conditions affecting the kidneys or upper urinary tract, such as pyelonephritis or renal calculi. Similarly, costovertebral angle (CVA) tenderness suggests kidney involvement, pointing toward upper urinary tract issues rather than a lower urinary tract infection. Calf pain is unrelated to urinary tract issues and may suggest a condition affecting the musculoskeletal or venous system. Therefore, suprapubic pain is the most specific symptom related to lower urinary tract infections.

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