What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Urethral Duplication

What is Duplication of Urethra? (Definition/Background Information)

• Duplication of Urethra is a very rare condition where there is an extra urethra, instead of the normal one
• The urethra is the tube that connects the urinary bladder to the genitals for the removal of fluids from the body. In men, the urethra is a long tube that runs through the penis. In women, the urethra is shorter and emerges above the vaginal opening
• Urethral Duplications can be classified into three types:
  • Incomplete Urethral Duplication (type 1)
  • Complete Urethral Duplication (type 2)
  • Urethral Duplication as a result of two bladders
• The exact cause of this condition is unknown; but it is probably due to a defect during the development of the embryo
• The clinical features of this abnormality are variable. People with complete urethral duplication can be asymptomatic or can present with a double stream of urine, incontinence, recurrent infections, or outflow obstructions
• Treatment of this condition depends on the anatomy of the duplication and its clinical features. Some people with mild symptoms do not require surgery. However, surgery might be considered for disturbing symptoms, such as an annoying double stream or incontinence, or for cosmetic reasons

(Source: Duplication of Urethra; Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD) of National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), USA.)

Who gets Duplication of Urethra? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Duplication of Urethra is a very rare congenital disorder. The presentation of symptoms may occur at birth
• Both males and females may be affected
• Worldwide, individuals of all racial and ethnic groups may be affected

What are the Risk Factors for Duplication of Urethra? (Predisposing Factors)

• Currently, no risk factors have been clearly identified for Duplication of Urethra

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Duplication of Urethra? (Etiology)

The exact cause of Duplication of Urethra is unknown; but it is probably due to a defect during the development of the embryo.

(Source: Duplication of urethra; Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD) of National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), USA.)

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Duplication of Urethra?

The signs and symptoms of Duplication of Urethra vary, and individuals may be asymptomatic or present with the following:

• A double stream of urine (the most common complaint and can be annoying, depending on where the extra opening in the genitals is located)
• Incontinence
• Recurrent infections
• Outflow obstructions

(Source: Duplication of urethra; Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD) of National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), USA.)

How is Duplication of Urethra Diagnosed?

Duplication of Urethra is diagnosed on the basis of the following information:

• Complete physical examination
• Thorough medical history evaluation
• Assessment of signs and symptoms
• Laboratory tests
• Imaging studies
• Biopsy studies, if necessary

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Duplication of Urethra?

The complications of Duplication of Urethra may include:

• Kidney damage or disease due to repeated infections of urethra
• Low self-esteem

Complications may occur with or without treatment, and in some cases, due to treatment also.

How is Duplication of Urethra Treated?

Treatment of Duplication of Urethra depends on the anatomy of the duplication and its clinical features.

• Those with mild symptoms do not require surgery 
• However, surgery might be considered for disturbing symptoms, such as an annoying double stream or incontinence, or for cosmetic reasons

(Source: Duplication of urethra; Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD) of National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), USA.)

How can Duplication of Urethra be Prevented?

• Currently, Duplication of Urethra may not be preventable, since the cause of this disorder is unknown
• Regular medical screening at periodic intervals with tests and physical examinations are recommended

What is the Prognosis of Duplication of Urethra? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis of Duplication of Urethra is dependent upon the severity of the signs and symptoms and associated complications, if any
• Individuals with mild conditions have better prognosis than those with severe symptoms and complications
• Typically, the prognosis may be assessed on a case-by-case basis

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Duplication of Urethra:

The following DoveMed website link is a useful resource for additional information:

http://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/rare-disorders/