What condition is characterized by the inability to void urine even when the bladder is full?

The condition characterized by the inability to void urine even when the bladder is full is urinary retention. This occurs when the bladder does not empty completely or at all, leading to a buildup of urine. Patients may experience discomfort due to the full bladder but are unable to initiate urination due to various causes, which can include obstruction, nerve problems, medications, or other underlying health issues.

In contrast, enuresis refers to involuntary urination, typically in children, during sleep, which does not align with the inability to urinate when the bladder is full. Incontinence is the loss of voluntary control over urination, leading to unintentional leakage of urine, which is different from being unable to void despite a full bladder. Hematuria is the presence of blood in the urine, and while it can be associated with various urinary issues, it specifically refers to the composition of the urine rather than the ability to void. Thus, urinary retention is the accurate choice, as it directly maps to the described condition.