In five to ten percent of cases, congenital malformations of the urethra constitute the underlying cause of urethral strictures.
Physicians distinguish between different types of malformation and the specific procedures involved in removing the urethral stricture. Urethral valves are sail-like membranes that are located within the urethra and cause it to constrict. Meatal stenosis is the medical term applied to a narrowing of the opening of the urethra. Another of these congenital abnormalities is the aforementioned hypospadias, in which the patient is born with an unusually short urethra. An additional five percent of strictures are caused by a condition known as lichen sclerosus. This inflammatory skin condition involves hardening and scarring of the soft tissue. Affected areas include the glans and foreskin, leading to urethral strictures and difficulties when urinating.
