Unusual duplicate bladder exstrophy in a female newborn: a case report

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Pediatric Surgery
• Developmental Biology

Background:

• The exstrophy-epispadias complex (EEC) encompasses a spectrum of congenital anomalies affecting the bladder and external genitalia.
• Typical bladder exstrophy involves a failure of the anterior abdominal wall and bladder to close, resulting in an exposed bladder.
• Rare variants and associated anomalies require detailed characterization for optimal management.

Observation:

• A rare variant of EEC was identified in a young female patient.
• The anomaly presented as a duplicate bladder, with one normally formed bladder communicating with an exstrophic bladder via a fistula.
• The patient exhibited a duplicated clitoris as the sole external genital malformation.

Findings:

• This specific variant represents a potential hybrid form, combining features of duplicate bladder exstrophy and superior vesical fistula.
• The anatomical configuration suggests a unique developmental pathway within the EEC spectrum.
• The presence of a fistula connecting a normal and exstrophic bladder is a key distinguishing feature.

Implications:

• This rare variant may possess a more favorable surgical prognosis than classic bladder exstrophy.
• Understanding such variants can refine surgical strategies and improve patient outcomes.
• Further research into the embryological origins of this hybrid form is warranted.