The ureters are small tube-like structures that drain urine from the kidneys to the bladder. In rare cases, the ureters may develop abnormally, which can lead to various diseases and problems with kidney function, as well as problems with urination. One such abnormal type of ureter is the double ureter. A double ureter is a type of congenital anomaly of the genitourinary system in which the internal ureter develops above or below the external ureter. This may impair the flow of urine from the kidneys and require surgery. In this article we will look at the causes of double ureter, its symptoms and possible complications, as well as methods of treatment and prevention of this disease.
**Causes of occurrence** The reasons for the development of a double ureter are currently unknown. However, certain factors may increase the risk of this anomaly. These include: - Family cases of diseases of the genitourinary system; - Exposure to teratogenic factors during pregnancy (drugs, radiation, trauma, infectious diseases); - Adverse environmental effects on the maternal body during pregnancy. **Double Ureter Symptoms** Double ureter symptoms usually begin early in life, although some patients may experience symptoms later in life. Possible symptoms include: - Pain and discomfort in the genitourinary area; - Risk of urinary tract infection (common among children with double ureters); - Frequent urination; - Increased body temperature; - Symptoms of kidney infection (pyelonephritis); - Too intense urine drainage; - Prolapse of one kidney, if both ureters go to this kidney. **Treatment of double ureters in childhood** In the early stages of development of double ureters, the treatment approach may be more conservative. The specialist must prescribe the patient a set of measures aimed at strengthening the immune system in order to reduce the risk of infectious complications. The following procedures may be necessary: - Taking medications to combat urinary tract infections; - Installation of a catheter for urine drainage if it cannot be drained through a normal ureter; - Formation of an artificial opening in the pyeloureteral angle between the upper and lower genitourinary structures to improve urine drainage. Treatment of double urethra in adult patients usually requires surgery. Doctor