Hematuria in Korea

Hematuria in Korea


Hematuria refers to blood in the urine, either visible (gross) or microscopic. While often benign, it can signal a serious underlying urinary tract condition like infection, kidney disease, or cancer. In Korea, prompt medical evaluation is crucial to determine the cause and ensure appropriate management.


Causes & Diagnosis of Hematuria in Korea

Hematuria indicates bleeding somewhere in the urinary tract.

Common causes include:

  • Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs).
  • Kidney stones (Urolithiasis).
  • Enlarged prostate (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia - BPH).
  • Kidney disease: Glomerulonephritis.
  • Cancers: Of kidney, bladder, prostate, or ureters (significant concern for painless gross hematuria).
  • Injury or trauma.
  • Strenuous exercise.
  • Medications: Blood thinners.

Diagnosis involves:

  • Urinalysis and urine culture.
  • Blood tests: To check kidney function.
  • Imaging tests: CT urogram, renal ultrasound.
  • Cystoscopy: To visualize bladder lining.


Common Treatments for Hematuria in Korea

Treatment depends entirely on the identified cause.

  • Antibiotics: For UTIs.
  • Kidney Stone Management: Medications or procedures (ESWL, ureteroscopy).
  • BPH Treatment: Medications or surgery (TURP).
  • Cancer Treatment: Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy.
  • Medication Adjustment: If a medication is causing bleeding.
  • Monitoring: For cases with no serious cause found.


Korean Medical Practices & Guidelines

Korean medical professionals adhere to established guidelines, emphasizing thoroughness.

  • Aggressive Workup: Especially for unexplained gross hematuria or high-risk microscopic hematuria to rule out malignancy.
  • Multidisciplinary Approach: Collaboration between urologists, nephrologists, oncologists.
  • Advanced Diagnostic Tools: Access to imaging and endoscopic procedures.


Key Takeaways for Hematuria in Korea

To summarize about Hematuria in Korea:

  • Blood in Urine: Visible or microscopic.
  • Diverse Causes: UTIs, kidney stones, cancers.
  • Requires Prompt Evaluation: To identify and treat underlying conditions.
  • Comprehensive Diagnosis: Urinalysis, imaging, cystoscopy.
  • Treatment is Cause-Specific: Addresses the root problem.

We hope this guide provides insight into Hematuria in Korea. Always seek immediate medical evaluation for any blood in the urine.