Penile hypoplasia associated with anorectal malformation: What should we call this condition?

Abstract

Background: Urogenital abnormalities are common in patients with anorectal malformations (ARM). The wide spectrum of urogenital abnormalities and ARM sometimes make it difficult to name the conditions simply. Case Presentation: We experienced a case of penile hypoplasia associated with the urethrorectal communication. Conclusion: From the viewpoint of urogenital anomalies, we might call this condition “aphallia variant” or “absent penis spectrum”. On the other hand, from the viewpoint of ARM, we might call this condition “male posterior cloaca” or “partial urorectal septum malformation sequence”. More important than naming them is understanding the clinical conditions precisely.