Definition
A ureterocele is swelling in one of the tubes (ureters) that carry urine from the kidney to the bladder. The swelling can block urine flow.
A ureterocele is a birth defect.
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
A ureterocele occurs in the lower part of the ureter, where the tube enters the bladder. The swelling prevents urine from moving freely into the bladder. The urine collects in the ureter and stretches its walls, blowing it up like a water balloon.
Ureteroceles occur in about 1 in 500 to 1 in 4,000 people. Caucasians are most likely to be affected. Ureteroceles are equally common in left- and right-side ureters.
Pictures & Images
Female urinary tract
The female and male urinary tracts are relatively the same except for the length of the urethra.
Male urinary tract
The male and female urinary tracts are relatively the same except for the length of the urethra.
Ureterocele
A ureterocele is a congenital (from birth) disorder in which the ureter develops an out-pouching as it enters the bladder. Ureteroceles usually occur after frequent urinary tract infections. Treatment of the ureterocele usually involves the placement of a stent to relieve the obstruction and/or surgical repair.
-
Ureterocele: Overview, Causes
-
Ureterocele: Symptoms & Signs, Diagnosis & Tests
Ureterocele: Treatment
Review Date : 9/7/2008 Reviewed By : David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; and Louis S. Liou, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor of Urology, Department of Surgery, Boston University School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
