Intraperitoneal rupture of the ureter as a cause of generalized peritonitis: report of a case

We report a rare case of generalized peritonitis caused by nontraumatic, intraperitoneal rupture of the ureter. An 80-year-old woman with a history of bilateral vesicoureteral reflux and long-term urethral indwelling catheter drainage presented with a very distended abdomen. Computed tomography showed massive ascites and intraperitoneal free gas. We performed an emergency laparotomy, assuming a gastrointestinal perforation; but could not find a cause of generalized peritonitis. Postoperatively, she presented with anuria and massive peritoneal drainage. The findings of a cystogram confirmed intraperitoneal ureteral rupture. She was managed successfully with ureteral stenting. The diagnosis of this condition requires a high degree of clinical suspicion, along with radiographic evidence and peritoneal fluid analysis. Image-guided interventions play a crucial role in the management of ureteral urine leaks after a correct diagnosis has been made.