Asymptomatic ureteral varices: detection by Doppler sonography

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Radiology
• Vascular Medicine

Background:

• Retroperitoneal vascular anomalies, such as ectatic or varicose veins, can lead to extrinsic compression of the ureter.
• Such compression may manifest as ureteral pressure defects, potentially impacting renal function.
• Idiopathic ureteral varices are rare and can present asymptomatically.

Observation:

• A case of an asymptomatic patient with idiopathic left ureteral varices was investigated.
• The primary diagnostic tool employed was Doppler sonography.
• Sonographic findings were crucial for characterizing the vascular nature of the ureteral defect.

Findings:

• Doppler sonography demonstrated characteristic features of vascular lesions consistent with ureteral varices.
• The technique proved valuable in differentiating these venous anomalies from other potential causes of ureteral obstruction.
• The identified varices were ectatic and appeared to cause extrinsic pressure on the left ureter.

Implications:

• Doppler sonography is a useful non-invasive imaging modality for diagnosing ureteral varices.
• Early identification of ureteral varices can prevent misdiagnosis and guide appropriate management.
• This case highlights the importance of considering vascular etiologies for unexplained ureteral defects.