The 88-year-old Nobel Peace Prize winner has been in hospital several times for a similar condition over the past few years, a statement by their joint foundation said.
Mr Tutu has been treated for prostate cancer for years and rarely makes public appearances.
He was seen in September during a visit by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex with their baby son Archie.
Mr Tutu was awarded the Nobel in 1984 for his efforts to end the system of white minority rule, or apartheid, and promote racial reconciliation in South Africa.
He has lent his moral stature to causes and campaigns around the world over the years.
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