Urologic emergencies. Conditions affecting the kidney, ureter, bladder, prostate, and urethra.

Prompt, thorough evaluation is needed when patients present with symptoms of renal colic, acute urinary retention, prostatitis, pyelonephritis, and other urologic emergencies. Primary care physicians have an important role in initial workup and treatment. Once the diagnosis is determined, urologic consultation may be necessary for definitive treatment.