Pathological ectopic kidney: Rare cases report and review of literature

Ectopic kidneys (EKs) are a rare congenital anomaly, occurring in approximately 1 in 900 individuals, where the kidney fails to ascend to its typical lumbar position. Although often asymptomatic, EKs are more susceptible to pathological conditions such as obstruction, infection, and stone formation due to their abnormal positioning.

We present three instructive cases of pathological ectopic kidneys, each demonstrating unique clinical challenges and management strategies: DISCUSSION: These cases underscore the value of advanced imaging for diagnosis and functional assessment, and demonstrate that individualized, minimally invasive surgical approaches can yield excellent outcomes despite anatomical complexities.

Understanding the diverse presentations and management strategies of pathological ectopic kidneys enhances clinical decision-making, underscoring the need for tailored approaches in this rare entity.