The duplex kidney and related abnormalities

Abstract

Renal duplication is the most common congenital abnormality of the urinary tract. The authors define the condition and review its embryology, anatomy, clinical features and investigation. Although the anomaly is common, radiologists often do not appreciate the incidence of its more frequent complications or the potential for causing subsequent severe renal damage. Anomalies associated with reduplication are fully discussed. These include ectopic ureteric orifices, ureteroceles and vesico-ureteric reflux. Many complications may be found. Examples include non-function of part of the kidney, obstructive atrophy, pyelonephritic scarring, renal stones, hypertension and tumours. Renal duplication is the most common congenital abnormality of the urinary tract. The authors define the condition and review its embryology, anatomy, clinical features and investigation. Although the anomaly is common, radiologists often do not appreciate the incidence of its more frequent complications or the potential for causing subsequent severe renal damage. Anomalies associated with reduplication are fully discussed. These include ectopic ureteric orifices, ureteroceles and vesico-ureteric reflux. Many complications may be found. Examples include non-function of part of the kidney, obstructive atrophy, pyelonephritic scarring, renal stones, hypertension and tumours.