Retrocaval ureter and associated abnormalities.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association of retrocaval ureter with other congenital abnormalities.

METHODS AND PATIENTS

Two new cases of retrocaval ureter are discussed and a detailed electronic search of the literature was mainly focused on the concomitant abnormalities. The first of our patients had also a glandular hypospadias and a supernumerary lumbar vertebra, while the second one had syndactylia (fixed toes) in both feet. Results. The review of the literature revealed that 21% of the cases of retrocaval ureter present with concomitant abnormalities mainly from the cardiovascular system and the genitourinary tract.

CONCLUSION

Diagnosis of retrocaval ureter should increase the awareness of the responsible physician on the possibility of concomitant malformations where treatment could prevent future symptoms.