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Familial occurrence of blind-ending bifid and duplicated ureters

F Aragona1, G P Glazel, G Zacchello

  • 1Institute of Urology, University of Padua, Italy.

International Urology and Nephrology
|January 1, 1987
PubMed

Insights

This study describes a rare congenital anomaly, a blind-ending bifid ureter, in a young girl experiencing urinary tract infections. Her sister presented with a similar condition, a blind-ending duplicated ureter, highlighting a potential genetic link.

Area of Science:

  • Urology
  • Pediatric Nephrology
  • Medical Genetics

Background:

  • Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common in children and can be associated with congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract (CAKUT).
  • Ureteral duplication anomalies represent a spectrum of congenital malformations with varying clinical significance.
  • Understanding the embryological basis of these anomalies is crucial for diagnosis and management.

Observation:

  • A case of a girl presenting with recurrent UTIs and a blind-ending bifid ureter is detailed.
  • A younger sister was found to have a similar anomaly: a blind-ending duplicated ureter.
  • These findings suggest a familial predisposition to specific ureteral malformations.

Findings:

  • The study documents a rare occurrence of bilateral blind-ending ureteral anomalies within the same family.
  • The described anomalies involve incomplete ureteral duplication or bifurcation.
  • Embryological review suggests a potential disruption in ureteral development during fetal life.

Implications:

  • Early recognition and investigation of UTIs in children may reveal underlying CAKUT.
  • Familial clustering of ureteral anomalies warrants consideration of genetic counseling.
  • Further research into the embryogenesis of blind-ending ureteral anomalies could improve diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.

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