Clinical Features and Urologic Evaluation in Young Male Patients with Asymptomatic Microscopic Hematuria

Ku, Kyeong Wan; Jo, Moon Ki; Min, Seung Ki

Abstract

PURPOSE
The commonly accepted diagnostic algorithm for hematuria includes excretory urography (IVU) and cystoscopy at a urologic department. The clinical courses was determined and a less invasive algorithm for young male patients with asymptomatic microscopic hematuria is suggested. MATERIALS AND MTHODS: A total of 310 males with an asymptomatic microscopic hematuria were enrolled retrospectively in the study at our clinic between January 1997 and December 2000. The mean age of the patients was 20.9 years (range 19 to 25). The initial urologic evaluation consisted of a urinalysis. If the results of the initial urologic evaluation were within the normal range, a cystoscopic examination was recommended as a further evaluation. Ninety-two patients underwent a cystoscopy. All patients were followed by urinalysis. The grade of microscopic hematuria with persistency, and the detection rate of abnormal findings in urologic evaluation were compared.
RESULTS
There was a relationship between the grade of hematuria and the rate of the persistency of hematuria, but no relationship between the grade of hematuria and the detection rate of abnormal findings in a urologic evaluation was found. The results of the excretory urography and ultrasound showed an interdependence. There were no significant findings in the cystoscopic examination.
CONCLUSIONS
A periodical follow-up of urinalysis is a proper study for young male patients with asymptomatic microscopic hematuria. In order to rule out upper urinary tract diseases, ultrasound and excretory urography can be useful. Furthermore, it is recommended that cystoscopy be done for selected cases in young male patients.