$Unique_ID{BRK01592}
$Pretitle{Digestive System, Genitourinary System}
$Title{What is NGU?}
$Subject{discharge antibiotic diagnosis}
$Volume{I-15, J-15}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What is NGU?


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QUESTION:  I visited my doctor for a disturbing and embarrassing discharge.  I
am a young (26 years old) otherwise healthy and normal male.  My doctor wasn't
too helpful, gave me an antibiotic and some medical mumbo jumbo as an
explanation.  All I can remember are the letters NGU, but can't find that in
my home medical advisor.  Can you help me in my search for information?

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ANSWER:  I will certainly try.  The mysterious letters you recall from your
visit at the doctor's office stand for "Non Gonococcal Urethritis" (or NGU).
At one time in the past history of medicine, a discharge from the penis, or
the tube-like channel that runs through it (the urethra), was almost always
due to an infection with a gonococcus, the bacteria that causes gonorrhea.
When a discharge occurred that contained no gonococcal bacteria, it was
thought to be due to a "strain" or perhaps too much alcohol or spicy food.  It
was even attributed to too much (or too little) sexual activity.  The symptoms
of both gonorrhea and NGU are very similar, a discharge, itching, and burning
during urination.  Only a careful examination and a lab test or two can tell
the difference.  The fact is that there are many possible causes of NGU
including several different types of bacteria and herpes virus.  However in
about 3 cases out of 4 the culprit is either Chlamydia trachomatous or
Ureaplasma urealyticum, both bacteria.  In these cases an antibiotic, one in
the class of tetracyclines, is usually effective.  Treatment should continue
for a week.  Now a word of caution.  NGU is considered a sexually transmitted
disease, more likely in men who have more than one sex partner.  Though it can
be treated and cured with the proper course of antibiotics, it is also
possible to become re-infected.  If you are monogamous, it doesn't mean your
partner is unfaithful.  Women may harbour these infecting organisms for years
before they show up.  It might be wise to have her examined, and treated as
well if this is necessary.  If this is not the case, practicing "safe sex"
using a condom may be your best protection.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
