Benign Urethral Lesions
At Montefiore Einstein Urology, you can access exceptional care for benign urethral lesions. As a global leader in urology, we are an academic-based, national and international referral site for the most complex and high-risk cases. For more than a century, we have been at the forefront of innovation, research and clinical care for genitourinary (GU) conditions.
Ranked in the top 1% of all hospitals in the nation for urology according to U.S. News & World Report, Montefiore Einstein continues to make advances in the diagnosis and treatment of GU conditions. Our multidisciplinary team of world-renowned specialists is passionate about uncovering the latest diagnostic approaches and treatments that can improve outcomes.
At Montefiore Einstein Urology, you can expect compassionate, personalized, research-driven treatment plans that meet the highest standards for quality and safety. In addition, we offer patients a full range of support services, from nutritional guidance to rehabilitative therapies.
When you need benign urethral lesions care, turn to our dedicated multidisciplinary team for a personalized treatment plan.
What Are Benign Urethral Lesions?
The urethra is the tube through which urine leaves the body. Benign urethral lesions can develop in or around the urethra and cause a variety of symptoms, including bleeding, painful urination, blocked urinary tract and infection.
Types of Benign Urethral Lesions
There are several different types of benign urethral lesions:
Noncancerous Growths
Noncancerous growths are often caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). These growths are visible on the urethral opening and can cause changes to urinary flow.
Lichen Sclerosus
Lichen sclerosus is a chronic skin condition that affects the tip of the penis. Its exact cause is unknown, making it difficult to prevent.
Paraurethral Cysts
Paraurethral cysts appear on a woman’s paraurethral glands, located in the vaginal wall near the opening of the urethra. They are yellow or white in color and constrict the size of the urethral opening. Symptoms of paraurethral cysts include painful urination, an abnormal urine stream and urinary obstruction.
Urethral Polyps
Urethral polyps are rare growths that affect females, often from birth.
Urethral Caruncles
Urethral caruncles are especially common in postmenopausal women who do not use hormone-replacement therapy. A urethral caruncle is a small reddish membrane that extends from the urethral opening.
Causes of Benign Urethral Lesions
Benign urethral lesions can be caused by an accident, infection or the way the organ grows. Some causes are:
- Abscesses
- Infections
- Injury caused by medical tools (such as catheters or cystoscopes)
- Pelvic breaks
- Rare health problems present at birth
- Straddle injuries
Signs & Symptoms of Benign Urethral Lesions
Symptoms of benign urethral lesions vary depending on the type of lesion. They include:
- Abnormal urinary stream
- Blood in the urine
- Pain or soreness around the urethra
- Painful urination
- Urinary obstruction
Diagnosing Benign Urethral Lesions
Urethral lesions are most commonly detected during routine pelvic exams. Most people don’t even realize the lesion is there until their healthcare provider finds it. Your healthcare provider may also perform a cystoscopy to examine the inside of your urethra and bladder. Since urethral lesions may appear similar to other types of urethral growths, including certain types of cancer, a biopsy may be ordered.
Treating Benign Urethral Lesions
Some types of benign urethral lesions do not require any treatment at all. In certain cases, however, surgical drainage may be necessary if the lesion is restricting urinary flow. Additional treatments include topical or oral antibiotics and surgical removal via cystourethroscopy if the lesion is causing significant symptoms like pain or obstruction to urine flow.