Living with Duplication of urethra
A very rare condition present at birth in which a person has an extra urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body.
Understanding Duplication of urethra
The urethra connects the bladder to the outside of the body. There are three types: incomplete duplication, complete duplication, and duplication that comes from two bladders. It can occur along with other differences of the urinary tract, genitals, and the anus and rectum. It is present from the newborn and infant years.
Signs & symptoms
Symptoms vary from person to person. GARD lists these among the most common:
- Extra urethra
- Epispadias (urethra opening on top of the penis)
- Hypospadias (urethra opening on the underside)
- Urine flowing backward toward the kidneys (reflux)
- Differences of the anus and rectum
Not everyone has every symptom. GARD's list comes from the Human Phenotype Ontology.
Diagnosis
- 1Talk with your doctor
Share the symptoms you've noticed, when they started and your family health history. Notes and photos can help.
- 2See a specialist
Specialists who may be involved include genetic specialists, kidney specialists and urinary and male reproductive system specialists.
- 3Ask which tests can help
Your care team will decide which exams and tests can confirm the diagnosis.
Care & treatment
- Care team
- Genetic specialists (geneticists); Kidney specialists (nephrologists); Urinary and male reproductive system specialists (urologists)
- Expert care
- Ask about multidisciplinary care centers for rare conditions
- Treatment
- GARD doesn't list specific treatments for this condition. Your care team will tailor care to your symptoms.
- Research
- Clinical trials and observational studies may be options. See the research section below.
General information, not medical advice. Your care team makes the decisions.
Everyday life
Living with a rare condition is easier with support.
- Connect with National Kidney Foundation and other patient organizations
- Keep notes on symptoms, changes and questions for appointments
- Ask about patient registries that help research
- Look into financial aid and travel resources for care visits
Quick facts
GARD says changes in a person's genes cause this condition. It doesn't list a specific gene.
Also known as: double urethra
Patient organizations
- National Kidney FoundationKidney diseases · United States
- Renal Support NetworkKidney diseases · United States
You are more than your diagnosis
Perspectives from people navigating life with Duplication of urethra.
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