Investigator(s)
| Submitter |
Karma Tenzin Phuntsholing Hospital, Chhukha Karma Tenzin 
|
| Principal Investigator |
Karma Tenzin Phuntsholing Hospital, Chhukha Karma Tenzin
|
| Co-Investigator(s) |
Kinley Zangmo Gedu Hospital, Chhukha Kinley Zangmo
|
| Co-Investigator(s) |
Tshetrim Zangmo Phuntsholing Hospital, Chhukha Tshetrim Zangmo
|
Title(s) and abstract
| Scientific title | Purple urine bag syndrome in a young man with paraplegia in Bhutan: A Case Report |
| Public title | Purple urine bag syndrome |
| Background | Purple urine bag syndrome is characterized by purple discolouration of the urinary catheter bag. It is uncommon and usually affects elderly, immobilized, and co-morbid patients who are on long-term urinary catheters. The purple discolouration is due to the production and mixing of pigments indirubin and indigo in the presence of bacteria in the urine. Most patients remain asymptomatic, and the phenomenon is considered benign. But it has been associated with urinary tract infection, with some cases progressing to complications and death. We present a 20-year-old man with paraplegia on a permanent suprapubic catheter, with purple urine bag syndrome and systemic signs of infection. His urine culture grew Staphylococcus aureus, which is not frequently associated with the condition. He recovered with no recurrence during follow-up. Healthcare workers need to be cognizant about this uncommon condition so that cases are recognized, assessed and managed appropriately. |
| Objectives | To raise awareness among healthcare workers in the country about the condition- purple urine bag syndrome. |
| Study Methods | Case report |
| Expected outcomes and use of results | Increased awareness about the condition among Bhutanese healthcare workers that will improve patient outcome. |
| Keywords | Purple urine bag syndrome; Staphylococcus aureus; Urinary catheter; Urinary tract infection |
Research Details
| Student research | No |
| Start Date | 13-Dec-2025 |
| End Date | 20-Feb-2026 |
| Key Implementing Institution | No sponsor |
| Multi-country research | No |
| Nationwide research | No |
| Bhutan | |
| Research Domain(s) | Non-communicable diseases & Healthy Lifestyles |
| Research field(s) | Non-communicable Disease |
| Involves human subjects | Yes |
| Other (Case Report) | |
| Data Collection | Primary data |
| Proposal reviewed by other Committee | No |