An Unusual Presentation of Massive Asymptomatic Urinary Retention in a 63-Year-Old Male With Iron Deficiency Anemia
June 2025
in “
Cureus
”

TLDR Unexplained anemia in older men may be linked to urological issues like urinary retention.
This case study highlights a 63-year-old male with massive asymptomatic chronic urinary retention, where his bladder contained approximately 15 liters of urine, discovered during an evaluation for unexplained iron deficiency anemia. Despite significant bladder distension and associated complications, his renal function was preserved. Management involved cautious bladder decompression, pharmacological treatment for suspected benign prostatic enlargement, and plans for transurethral resection of the prostate. The case emphasizes the importance of considering urological causes in patients with unexplained anemia and the need for a comprehensive diagnostic approach in older men.