Urethritis is defined as any inflammation of the urethra and is typified by urethral itch, discharge and dysuria. However, it may be asymptomatic.

This multifactorial condition may be sexually acquired and is categorised as either gonococcal, where the causative organism is identified as Neisseria gonorrhoea, or non-gonococcal (NGU), for the remaining cases. 

Non-specific urethritis (NSU) has also been used to describe both NGU and non-gonococcal/non-chlamydial urethritis. However, the term is best avoided to lessen