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Single-system ureteroceles in infants and children: imaging features
J M Zerin1, D R Baker, J A Casale
1Department of Radiology, Indiana University Medical Center, James Whitcomb Riley Hospital for Children, Indianapolis 46202-5200, USA.
Pediatric Radiology
|February 7, 2001
Summary
Single-system ureteroceles are uncommon causes of hydronephrosis in children, often presenting in boys and associated with multicystic dysplastic kidney. They can be mistaken for other conditions due to their appearance on imaging.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Urology
- Medical Imaging
- Congenital Anomalies
Background:
- Ureteroceles are congenital anomalies of the upper urinary tract.
- Single-system ureteroceles are a less common variant compared to duplex-system ureteroceles.
- Understanding their unique clinical and imaging features is crucial for diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the clinical and imaging findings in children diagnosed with single-system ureteroceles.
- To highlight the diagnostic challenges associated with single-system ureteroceles.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of urology records and imaging studies.
- Analysis of 32 consecutive infants and children with single-system ureteroceles.
- Correlation of clinical presentation with imaging findings.
Main Results:
- 35 ureteroceles identified in 32 patients (29 unilateral, 3 bilateral).
- Most common presentation was prenatally detected hydronephrosis or cystic renal dysplasia (24 patients).
- 47% of ureteroceles everted at Voiding Cystourethrogram (VCUG), mimicking paraureteral diverticula.
Conclusions:
- Single-system ureterocele is an important cause of hydronephrosis and renal dysplasia in pediatric patients.
- Distinguishing features include frequent occurrence in boys and association with multicystic dysplastic kidney.
- Potential for misdiagnosis due to small size and eversion at VCUG necessitates careful evaluation.
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