[Aneurysm of the abdominal aorta as a retroperitoneal urologic emergency].

Ten percent of the patients with a symptomatic abdominal aortic aneurysm have initial complaints of genitourinary disorders. From April 1985 to May 1988 12 aortic aneurysms have been seen primarily in the division of urology Düren. In 9 of these 12 cases it was ultrasonography, which led to the diagnosis. The treatment must be individualized, and in case of obstructive uropathy the question of an adjuvant or monotherapeutic urological proceeding depends upon the age and symptoms of the patient. Urinary diversion by ureteral splint or nephrostomy contains risks, so that control strategy (watchful waiting) or treatment with steroids have to be considered.