URETHRAL CARUNCLE Meaning and
Definition
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Urethral caruncle refers to a small, benign growth or swelling that develops in the urethra, which is the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body. This condition typically affects women, especially those who have reached menopause.
Urethral caruncles usually appear as small, fleshy or reddish protrusions near the opening of the urethra. They may cause discomfort or pain, and are often accompanied by symptoms like urinary frequency, urgency, or discomfort during urination. In some cases, they may also cause small amounts of blood to appear in the urine.
The exact cause of urethral caruncles remains unknown, but various factors have been associated with their development, including hormonal changes, chronic irritation, or trauma to the urethra.
Diagnosis of urethral caruncles is typically conducted through a physical examination and medical history evaluation. Additional tests like urine analysis or cystoscopy may be performed to rule out other conditions and confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment options for urethral caruncles may include conservative approaches, such as warm sitz baths, topical medications, or hormonal creams to alleviate symptoms. If conservative measures fail to provide relief, surgical removal of the caruncle may be recommended.
Overall, urethral caruncles are non-cancerous growths that occur in the urethra, mainly affecting women. While they can cause discomfort and urinary symptoms, they are generally benign and can be effectively managed with appropriate medical intervention.
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A small, fleshy, painful growth from the mucous membrane, sometimes occurring at the meatus of the female urethra.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for URETHRAL CARUNCLE
Etymology of URETHRAL CARUNCLE
The word "urethral caruncle" has a Latin-Greek etymology.
The term "urethral" is derived from the Latin word "urethra", which means "urinary passage" or "canal through which urine is discharged". It is a noun form of the verb "urinare", meaning "to urinate".
The word "caruncle" comes from the Latin word "caruncula", which translates to "small piece of flesh" or "wart". It is a diminutive form of "caro", meaning "flesh" or "meat".
Therefore, "urethral caruncle" refers to a small fleshy growth or wart-like lesion that occurs in the urethra.
