Ureterocele

Causes and Risks:
A ureterocele is an uncommon disorder characterized by a widening of the lower part of the ureter where it enters the bladder. This is associated with stenosis (narrowing) of the lowest part of the ureter.

The disorder is congenital. Ureteroceles may be discovered in infants during a prenatal maternal ultrasound ( pregnancy ultrasound ). Children often present with severe urinary tract infections . It may cause chronic unilateral or bilateral obstructive uropathy of the affected kidney(s).

Prevention:
There is no known prevention for this condition; it is present at birth but may not be discovered until later.

Symptoms:



Signs and Tests:
Blood pressure may be elevated. A urinalysis may reveal blood in the urine or signs of urinary infection. A retrograde pyelogram may show ureterocele and hydronephrosis (enlarged kidney from retention of urine behind the obstruction). In IVP may show ureterocele and hydronephrosis. An abdominal ultrasound or CT scan of the abdomen may show hydronephrosis.

Treatment:
Treatment is focused on relief of the obstruction. Stents (drains placed in the ureter or in the renal pelvis) may provide short-term relief of symptoms. Surgical repair of the ureterocele is usually curative.

Prognosis:
The outcome varies. If the obstruction can be cured, the damage may be temporary. However, damage to the kidney may be permanent, especially if the condition persists. The other kidney may continue to function adequately.

Complications:



Call Your Healthcare Provider:
Call your health care provider if symptoms indicate ureterocele may be present.


This is an illustration of the female urinary tract. The female and male urinary tracts are relatively the same except for the length of the urethra. The positioning in the body and relative size of the organs are also demonstrated.



This is an illustration of the male urinary tract. The female and male urinary tract are relatively the same except for the length of the urethra. The positioning and relative size of the organs are also shown.