Pelvic kidney fetal ultrasound

Prevalence:

• 1 in 1,000 births.

Ultrasound diagnosis:

• Visualisation of the kidney in the pelvis above the bladder.
• Empty renal fossa on the affected side with the adrenal gland filling the space.
• Color Doppler might be useful to locate the hilum of the ectopic kidney.
• Normal bladder and amniotic fluid volume.

Associated abnormalities:

• The incidence of chromosomal defects and genetic syndromes is not increased.

Investigations:

• Detailed ultrasound examination.

Follow up:

• Ultrasound scans every 4 weeks to detect possible late-onset hydronephrosis.

Delivery:

• Standard obstetric care and delivery.

Prognosis:

• Good prognosis. Vesico-ureteral reflux and uretero-pelvic junction obstruction may occur.

Recurrence:

• No increased risk of recurrence.