Urethral prolapse in a 4-year-old girl: A case report

Abstract

Background: Urethral prolapse is a rare cause of vaginal bleeding in prepubertal females and occurs
more commonly in black girls. It is characterized by protrusion of the distal urethral mucosa at or
beyond the level of the urethral meatus. It is often mistaken for sexual abuse in children because it
presents with vaginal bleeding, creating anxiety among parents and confusion among clinicians.
Case presentation: A 4-year-old girl presented to the outpatient department with a 2-day history of
vaginal bleeding. However, no lower abdominal pain was reported. Sexual abuse was initially
suspected. A diagnosis of urethral prolapse was made during examination under anesthesia.
Surgical excision and postoperative care were performed.
Conclusion: Urethral prolapse, although rare, can occur in prepubertal black girls and is managed
either surgically or through conservative approaches.