Urachal adenocarcinoma in an adolescent boy: a case report

Urachal carcinoma is an extremely rare malignant tumor originating from the urachus. Urachal adenocarcinoma has never been reported in patients under 20 years of age. In this case, we describe a 15-year-old patient with urachal adenocarcinoma and propose possible risk factors.

The patient presented with hematuria for two months and dysuria for one month, and had a history of smoking and alcohol consumption for three years. Ultrasonography showed an irregular mass on the anterior wall of the bladder. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography revealed a pedicled soft tissue mass measuring 2.6×2.4 cm within the bladder, showing significant enhancement. Partial cystectomy was conducted, and a histopathological diagnosis of urachal adenocarcinoma (T2N0M0) was made. During eight months of follow-up, the patient remained asymptomatic with no evidence of recurrence.

Urachal remnants may lead to urinary symptoms and the development of urachal carcinoma. A history of smoking and alcohol consumption could be possible risk factors for urachal adenocarcinoma in this case. It is possible that urachal remnants can undergo malignant transformation, even at ages as young as 15 years. Regular follow-up should be recommended for patients whose urachal remnants persist beyond childhood.