ResearchBib Share Your Research, Maximize Your Social Impacts
Sign for Notice Everyday Sign up >> Login

Purple urine bag syndrome: When the urine turns purple – An under diagnosed spot diagnosis

Journal: Journal of Clinical Images and Medical Case Reports (Vol.2, No. 3)

Publication Date:

Authors : ; ; ; ; ;

Page : 1-3

Keywords : Purple urine bag syndrome (PUBS); purple discolouration; urinary tract infection (UTI); long-term catheterization.;

Source : Downloadexternal Find it from : Google Scholarexternal

Abstract

The Purple Urine Bag Syndrome (PUBS) is a rare condition in which the urine turns purple. It may occur in Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) when bacteria metabolize dietary tryptophan to indole resulting in indigo (blue) and indirubin (red). This condition is mostly seen in elderly female patients with permanent urinary bladder catheterization. Patients, relatives and health professionals may be concerned about this discolouration, which is usually harmless. Medical management of PUBS involves frequent urinary bag change, antibiotic therapy and most importantly reassurance. We report an 89-years-old long-term catheterized female nursing home resident who was admitted to the emergency room because of a Community Acquired Pneumonia (CAP). After a few days of inpatient treatment her urine bag turned purple. Antibiotic therapy continued and the indwelling urinary catheter was changed resulting in clear urine.

Last modified: 2021-07-14 10:21:53