Horseshoe kidney
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| Horseshoe kidney | |
|---|---|
| File:Hufeisenniere CT axial.jpg | |
| Synonyms | Renal fusion |
| Pronounce | N/A |
| Specialty | Nephrology, Urology |
| Symptoms | Often asymptomatic, urinary tract infection, kidney stones, hydronephrosis |
| Complications | Obstruction, vesicoureteral reflux, increased risk of Wilms' tumor |
| Onset | Congenital |
| Duration | Lifelong |
| Types | N/A |
| Causes | Developmental anomaly during fetal development |
| Risks | Genetic factors, environmental factors |
| Diagnosis | Ultrasound, CT scan, MRI |
| Differential diagnosis | Polycystic kidney disease, renal ectopia |
| Prevention | N/A |
| Treatment | Symptomatic treatment, surgical intervention if necessary |
| Medication | Antibiotics for infections, analgesics for pain |
| Prognosis | N/A |
| Frequency | 1 in 500 people |
| Deaths | Rarely directly causes death |
Horseshoe Kidney is a congenital disorder that results in the fusion of the kidneys at the lower poles, forming a U-shape or horseshoe shape. This condition is also known as Ren Arcuatus.
Overview[edit]
Horseshoe kidney occurs in about 1 in 500 births, making it one of the most common types of renal fusion anomalies. Despite its prevalence, the condition often goes undiagnosed because it typically causes no symptoms. However, it can sometimes lead to complications such as kidney stones, urinary tract infections, and hydronephrosis.
Causes[edit]
The exact cause of horseshoe kidney is unknown. It is believed to occur during the early stages of fetal development when the kidneys move into their normal position in the lower abdomen. For reasons not fully understood, the lower poles of the kidneys fuse together.
Symptoms[edit]
Most people with horseshoe kidney have no symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they can include:
- Abdominal pain
- Blood in the urine
- Frequent urination
- Urinary tract infections
Diagnosis[edit]
Horseshoe kidney is often diagnosed during an imaging test for another condition. Imaging tests that can detect horseshoe kidney include:
Treatment[edit]
Treatment for horseshoe kidney typically involves managing symptoms and preventing complications. This can include medications to prevent kidney stones and urinary tract infections.
See Also[edit]
References[edit]
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