Purple Hues in the Urinary Bag: A Rare but Striking Clinical Phenomenon

Authors : Zahit Dönmez, Hüseyin Avni Demir, Eyyup Sabri Şeyhanlı, Ahmet Celal Özsoy, Muhammed Tabası, Abdul Samed Rayan

Pages : 842-844

Doi:10.35440/hutfd.1674873

View : 37 | Download : 105

Publication Date : 2025-12-25

Article Type : Other Papers

Abstract :Purple Urine Bag Syndrome (PUBS) represents a rare but striking clinical entity, predominantly affecting elderly, immobilized patients with long-term urinary catheterization. The purple discoloration of the urine collection system stems from bacterial enzymatic interactions with tryptophan metabolites. A 75-year-old woman, recently bedridden following a cerebrovascular event, was brought to the emergency department due to an unusual purple hue in her urine collection bag. On examination, she exhibited left-sided hemiplegia and mild suprapubic tenderness. Laboratory findings were mostly within normal limits, except for a positive urine culture growing Escherichia coli. The catheter was replaced, and the patient’s family was reassured about the benign nature of the condition. The patient was discharged with appropriate oral antibiotic treatment targeting the urinary tract infection. Although benign, PUBS may cause significant psychological distress due to its unusual appearance. Familiarity with this condition among emergency physicians is crucial to avoid unnecessary diagnostic or therapeutic procedures. Timely recognition and proper management, including catheter care and targeted antibiotic therapy, usually result in rapid resolution.n.
Keywords : Mor İdrar Torbası Sendromu, Üriner sistem enfeksiyonu, Triptofan metabolizması, Escherichia coli, Acil servis

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