Horseshoe kidney with retrocaval ureter: one case report

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Medical Imaging
• Congenital Anomalies

Background:

• Horseshoe kidney and retrocaval ureter are uncommon congenital anomalies of the genitourinary system.
• Combined presentation is rare, posing diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.

Observation:

• A 44-year-old male presented with both horseshoe kidney and retrocaval ureter.
• The patient was preoperatively diagnosed using unenhanced computed tomography (CT) scanning following retrograde pyelography.

Findings:

• Unenhanced CT after retrograde pyelography effectively diagnosed the combined anomalies.
• The isthmus of the horseshoe kidney was located between the abdominal aorta and inferior vena cava.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of advanced imaging in diagnosing rare genitourinary anomalies.
• Reviewing diagnostic evaluation and surgical management strategies is crucial for rare combined congenital conditions.