Crossed fused right-to-left renal ectopia with single ureter

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Medical Imaging
• Embryology

Background:

• Crossed fused renal ectopia is a rare congenital upper urinary tract malformation.
• It is often asymptomatic and diagnosed incidentally via imaging.
• Nephrolithiasis can be a presenting symptom.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a rare case of crossed fused right-to-left renal ectopia with a single ureter.
• To discuss the diagnostic process and clinical implications of this anatomical variant.
• To review embryological considerations and the role of CT imaging.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a male patient in his 50s.
• Diagnosis confirmed via contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT).
• Review of relevant literature on renal ectopia and ureteral anomalies.

Main Results:

• CT identified crossed fused right-to-left renal ectopia.
• An unusual single ureter crossing the midline and inserting contralaterally was noted.
• The patient presented with acute abdominal pain secondary to nephrolithiasis.

Conclusions:

• This rare anatomical variant significantly influences clinical management and follow-up.
• Contrast-enhanced CT is crucial for evaluating urinary tract malformations.
• Understanding embryological origins aids in diagnosing such anomalies.