A genital ulcer is an open sore located on the genital area, which includes the vulva, penis, perianal region, or anus. Genital ulcers are most commonly caused by infectious agents (fungal infections, secondary bacterial infections, or sexually transmitted diseases such as genital herpes, syphilis or chancroid). However, this is not always the case, as a genital ulcer may have noninfectious causes as well. Overview
A genital ulcer may be located on the vulva, penis, perianal region, or anus. Globally, the incidence of genital ulcers is estimated to be approximately 20 million cases annually. The most likely cause of a genital ulcer varies depending on the characteristics of a population and location. The most common cause of genital ulcers in the United States is herpes simplex infections, with syphilis the second most common cause, and chancroid the third. These common causes of genital ulcer disease (HSV-1, HSV-2 and treponema pallidum) can all be efficiently transmitted through oral sex.Important signs associated with genital ulcers that may assist in the diagnosis of the cause of the genital ulcer may include the presence of tender or non-tender enlarged lymph nodes in the groin area, a painful or non-painful genital ulcer, or the presence of vesicular lesions, which are small, painful, elevated blisters.The most common causes of a genital ulcer include infectious agents, with sexually transmitted diseases being the most common, but which can also include fungal infections and secondary bacterial infections.
Renal colic is a type of abdominal pain commonly caused by obstruction of ureter from dislodged kidney stones. The most frequent site of obstruction is the vesico-ureteric junction (VUJ), the narrowest point of the upper urinary tract. Acute obstruction and the resultant urinary stasis (disruption of urine flow) can distend the ureter (hydroureter) and cause a reflexive peristaltic smooth muscle spasm, which leads to a very intense visceral pain transmitted via the ureteric plexus. Signs and symptoms
Renal colic typically begins in the flank and often radiates to below the ribs or the groin. It typically comes in waves due to ureteric peristalsis, but may be constant. It is often described as one of the most severe pains.Although this condition can be very painful, most ureteric stones under 5 mm size will eventually pass into the bladder without needing treatments, and cause no permanent physical damage. The experience is said to be traumatizing due to the severe pain, and the experience of passing blood and clots as well as pieces of stone. In most cases, people with renal colic are advised to drink more water to facilitate passing; in other instances, lithotripsy or endoscopic surgery may be needed. Preventive treatment can be instituted to minimize the likelihood of recurrence. Diagnosis
The diagnosis of renal colic is the same as the diagnosis for renal calculus and ureteric stones.