The results of routine evaluation of adult patients with haematuria analysed according to referral form information with 2-year follow-up.
OBJECTIVE
With the principal aim of determining how often investigation of haematuria results in a malignancy diagnosis, the referrals (n = 581) during one year to a department of urology (catchment area 250,000 inhabitants) where haematuria was mentioned in the referral form have been registered and analysed. The case records were evaluated after two years.


RESULTS
The tumours detected were mainly bladder tumours (n = 43) and prostate cancers (n = 31). Only three upper urinary tract tumours were diagnosed. The incidence of malignancies was high in patients with macroscopic haematuria (24%), especially if it was asymptomatic (32%). The incidence was lower in microscopic haematuria (9%), especially if it was asymptomatic (5%). The incidence of malignancies was strongly age- and sex-related; in no female under 70 years and in no male under 45 years of age with microscopic haematuria was a malignant tumour detected.


CONCLUSIONS
Macroscopic haematuria, especially in older patients, is often associated with a malignancy and the investigation must be given high priority. The incidence of malignant tumours in patients with symptomatic microscopic haematuria also warrants an investigation. In the case of asymptomatic microhaematuria. the risk is so low, especially in women that the need for a work-up must be strongly questioned.
Boman
H
H
Department of Surgery, Alingsås Lasarett, Alingsås, Sweden.
Hedelin
H
H
Holmäng
S
S
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003955:Diagnostic Tests, Routine; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006417:Hematuria / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011996:Records; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D013997:Time Factors