Constant Urinary Dribbling Due to an Ectopic Ureter and Delays in Diagnosis

Abstract

We present 2 patients who had a solitary kidney visualized on ultrasound imaging and experienced constant urinary dribbling. Further imaging modalities defined the anatomy and visualized the contralateral kidney and ectopic ureter causing the dribbling. Both patients went on to have curative surgical procedures. These cases reinforce the point that in a toilet-trained girl with normal voiding at normal intervals experiencing constant urinary dribbling, the diagnosis of an ectopic ureter must be considered early and referral made for appropriate imaging. Because of the abnormal anatomy, ultrasound imaging is particularly limited in such cases, but if used, one should take account of antenatal and postnatal scans. Referral is advocated, based on history alone, for appropriate imaging and investigation.