The underlying syndromes that cause dysuria differ somewhat between men and women.

• In women, most dysuria syndromes can be categorized as either bacterial cystitis or lower genital tract infections (e.g., vaginitis, urethritis, sexually transmitted infections [STIs]) (see Chaps. 83. Sexually Transmitted and Reproductive Tract Infections and 144. Urinary Tract Infections and Interstitial Cystitis). The presence of urinary frequency, urinary urgency, suprapubic pain, and/or hematuria is more typical of bacterial cystitis than of STIs.
• In men, dysuria is often due to STIs or involvement of the prostate (e.g., acute or chronic bacterial prostatitis) (see Chaps. 83. Sexually Transmitted and Reproductive Tract Infections and 144. Urinary Tract Infections and Interstitial Cystitis). In addition, dysuria and other symptoms of cystitis can occur in the setting of significant benign prostatic hyperplasia that leads to urinary stasis with an accompanying bacterial infection.
• In both sexes, dysuria can result from noninfectious disorders. Noninfectious causes of acute dysuria include lower urinary tract stones, trauma, and urethral exposure to topical chemicals. Chronic dysuria may be attributable to lower urinary tract cancers, certain medications, Behçet's syndrome, or interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (see Chap. 144. Urinary Tract Infections and Interstitial Cystitis).