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Bilateral single ectopic ureters: diagnosis using transrectal ultrasound
O Fannin1, J T Cammack, K L Crotty
1Department of Surgery, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston 77555-0540.
The Journal of Urology
|October 1, 1993
Summary
This report details a rare case of bilateral ectopic ureters in a single patient, which abnormally inserted into the prostate gland. This condition led to significant hydronephrosis and impaired renal function, requiring diagnostic imaging.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Ectopic ureters are congenital anomalies where the ureter does not enter the bladder at the normal trigone location.
- Bilateral single ectopic ureters are exceptionally rare, with varied anatomical presentations.
Observation:
- A patient presented with symptoms indicative of urinary tract obstruction and declining kidney function.
- Diagnostic imaging revealed bilateral, single ectopic ureters.
- These ureters were observed to insert directly into the prostate gland.
Findings:
- The ectopic ureteral insertions into the prostate caused significant obstruction.
- This obstruction resulted in bilateral hydronephrosis, a swelling of the kidneys due to urine backup.
- The condition led to progressive renal insufficiency, indicating compromised kidney function.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering rare congenital anomalies in the differential diagnosis of hydronephrosis and renal insufficiency.
- Transrectal and abdominal ultrasound proved effective in diagnosing this unusual anatomical variation.
- Understanding such anomalies is crucial for appropriate surgical and medical management to preserve renal function.