Genitourinary tuberculosis in Germany

Genitourinary tuberculosis (GUTB) usually results from the reactivation of old, dormant tuberculous diseases by pathogens of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex. The diagnosis of tuberculosis of the urinary tract is based on the case history, the finding of pyuria in the absence of infection as judged by culture on routine media and by radiological imaging. A positive yellow egg culture and/or histological analysis of biopsy specimens possibly combined with the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is still required in most patients to establish a definitive diagnosis of GUTB. Antituberculous drug treatment is based on an initial 2 month intensive phase with three or four drugs daily followed by a 4 month continuation phase with only two drugs. Surgery as a treatment option in GUTB might be indicated in complicated urinary tuberculosis. After antituberculous treatment of GUTB a follow-up surveillance over 5 years is recommended. Although the incidence of GUTB in Germany is relatively low, it is still necessary to impart and deepen scientific knowledge of the diagnosis and therapy of GUTB.