Duplex kidney

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Duplex Kidney is a congenital condition where a kidney has two ureters instead of one. The ureters are the tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder. This condition can occur in one or both kidneys.

Causes[edit | edit source]

The exact cause of duplex kidney is unknown. It is believed to occur during fetal development when the two ureters fail to fuse into a single tube. This condition is often associated with other urinary tract abnormalities.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

Most people with a duplex kidney do not have any symptoms. However, some may experience urinary tract infections, kidney stones, or urinary incontinence. In severe cases, it can lead to kidney damage or failure.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Duplex kidney is often diagnosed during an ultrasound scan performed for other reasons. Other diagnostic tests may include a CT scan, MRI, or a special type of X-ray called an intravenous pyelogram (IVP).

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for duplex kidney depends on the severity of the condition and the presence of any associated complications. In many cases, no treatment is necessary. However, if the condition is causing problems, surgery may be required to correct the abnormality.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Duplex kidney Resources

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD