Single ectopic vaginal ureter diagnosed by computed tomography
K Komatsu1, S Niikura, Y Maeda
1Department of Urology, Kanazawa University School of Medicine, Kanazawa, Japan. kkomatsu@med.kanazawa-u.ac.jp
Urologia Internationalis
|December 11, 1999
Summary
A rare case of a single ectopic vaginal ureter in a young girl caused urinary incontinence. Enhanced CT imaging was crucial for diagnosing the associated hypoplastic kidney and ectopic ureter.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Pediatric Urology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Urinary incontinence in children can stem from various congenital anomalies.
- Ectopic ureters, where the ureter does not enter the bladder normally, are a known cause.
Observation:
- A 6-year-old girl presented with symptoms of urinary incontinence.
- Initial imaging (excretory urography and renal sonography) was inconclusive in identifying the underlying cause.
- The dysplastic kidney was not visualized by standard methods.
Findings:
- Enhanced computed tomography (CT) provided definitive diagnosis.
- The imaging revealed a poorly functioning, hypoplastic kidney.
- A single ectopic ureter terminating in the vagina was clearly identified.
- The vagina was also visualized filled with contrast medium.
Implications:
- This case highlights the diagnostic utility of enhanced CT in complex pediatric urogenital anomalies.
- Accurate diagnosis of ectopic ureters is essential for appropriate management and preventing complications.
- Early identification can lead to timely surgical intervention and improved outcomes for children with urinary incontinence.
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