Genitourinary Issues in Palliative Care

Abstract

Genitourinary problems in palliative care can be very distressing to patients and require prompt management and alleviation of symptoms. Examples include urinary tract obstruction, which can lead to pain and kidney injury, as well as infection, hematuria, renal colic, and bladder spasm-related pain. This chapter addresses relevant aspects of palliative care in patients with genitourinary issues, including consideration for context of symptoms and subsequent practical management. Options for symptom management may range from medications to procedural interventions. In deciding between treatment options, factors such as the patient’s preexisting comorbidities, performance status, goals of care, and anticipated benefit in symptom control and in quality of life versus potential burden of treatment must be considered.