Collateral urethral duplication in an adult.

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Pediatric Surgery
• Medical Genetics

Background:

• Congenital urethral anomalies, such as urethral duplication, are exceptionally rare, with fewer than 500 documented cases.
• Urethral duplication typically presents in childhood, often identified by distinct urethral meatus or a double urinary stream if both openings are functional.

Observation:

• This report details a case of urethral duplication diagnosed in adulthood, characterized by glans malformation with two apparent urethral orifices, only one of which was functional.
• Delayed diagnosis in adulthood is uncommon, often occurring due to associated complications like infections or urinary obstruction, or in conjunction with other significant congenital malformations.

Findings:

• The embryological basis for the diverse anatomical variations observed in urethral duplication remains incompletely understood, with no single theory explaining all presentations.
• Diagnosis in adulthood is rare, highlighting the atypical presentation of this congenital condition.

Implications:

• The management of urethral duplication necessitates an individualized approach, considering the specific type of duplication and the presenting clinical symptoms.
• Further research into the embryology of urethral development may elucidate the mechanisms behind these rare anomalies.