Ectopic ureter

Ectopic Ureter

Diagram showing various positions of an ectopic ureter.

An ectopic ureter is a congenital condition where the ureter, which is the duct that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder, does not connect to the bladder in the usual location. Instead, it opens in an abnormal position, which can lead to urinary incontinence and other complications.

Anatomy and Physiology

In a typical urinary system, the ureters connect the kidneys to the bladder, allowing urine to flow from the kidneys to be stored in the bladder until urination. In the case of an ectopic ureter, the ureter may open into the urethra, vagina, or even the uterus in females, or into the seminal vesicle or prostate in males.

Pathophysiology

The abnormal positioning of the ureteral opening can lead to continuous urinary leakage, as urine bypasses the bladder's storage function. This condition is often associated with other congenital anomalies of the urinary tract, such as duplex kidneys, where two ureters drain a single kidney.

Clinical Presentation

Patients with an ectopic ureter may present with symptoms such as:

• Continuous urinary incontinence
• Recurrent urinary tract infections
• Hydronephrosis
• Vesicoureteral reflux

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of an ectopic ureter typically involves imaging studies such as:

• Ultrasound
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
• Voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG)
• Intravenous pyelogram (IVP)

Treatment

Treatment options for ectopic ureter depend on the severity and associated conditions. Surgical intervention is often required to reposition the ureter to a normal location on the bladder. Procedures may include:

• Ureteral reimplantation
• Nephrectomy in cases of non-functioning kidneys

Prognosis

With appropriate surgical treatment, the prognosis for patients with an ectopic ureter is generally good. Early diagnosis and management are crucial to prevent complications such as renal damage and chronic kidney disease.

Related Pages

• Urinary incontinence
• Congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract (CAKUT)
• Duplex kidney