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A rare case of an intraperitoneal kidney
Zuzanna Szewczyk1, Kinga Krawczyk2, Rafał Bieś3
1Students' Scientific Association, Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland. s86246@365.sum.edu.pl.
Folia Morphologica
|September 2, 2025
Summary
An anatomical variation revealed an intraperitoneal kidney, a rare condition found in only three documented cases worldwide. This unusual kidney location can complicate diagnostic imaging and surgical procedures.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Surgical Anatomy
- Medical Case Reports
Background:
- The kidney is typically an retroperitoneal organ, protected by renal fascia.
- This anatomical arrangement provides mechanical protection against injury.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a rare anatomical variation of kidney location.
- To highlight the clinical significance of this variation.
Main Methods:
- Anatomical dissection of an 85-year-old male cadaver.
- Detailed observation and measurement of renal structures.
Main Results:
- The right kidney was found to be located intraperitoneally, situated among the small intestine loops.
- The right kidney measured 12.5 cm by 5.7 cm with normal vascularization.
- The left kidney was smaller than average but anatomically normal.
Conclusions:
- This represents the third reported case of an intraperitoneal kidney globally.
- Intraperitoneal kidney location poses challenges for diagnostic imaging and surgical interventions.
- Awareness of this anatomical variant is crucial for clinicians.
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