[Anuria--a geriatric emergency situation]

The missing output of urine is an emergency case which is problematic with regard to old patients. This situation is caused by disturbances of renal function (anuria) or by acute ureteric obstruction or by complete ischuria. The possibilities of differential diagnosis and etiology have been illustrated. Anuria and acute ureteric obstruction need a treatment by urological or nephrological specialists, but each doctor must be able in cases of complete ischuria to empty the bladder by catheterization or by suprapubic puncture.