Supernumerary kidney
Supernumerary Kidney
Supernumerary kidney (pronunciation: soo-per-noo-muh-rer-ee kid-nee) is a rare congenital anomaly in the urinary system where an individual is born with an extra kidney.
Etymology
The term 'Supernumerary' is derived from the Latin word 'supernumerarius', which means 'excessive in number'. The term 'Kidney' is derived from the Old English word 'ciden', which means 'to bear young'.
Definition
A Supernumerary kidney is a third kidney that is completely separated from the normal kidneys, having its own renal capsule, blood supply, collecting system, and enclosing fascia. It is a rare condition, with less than 100 cases reported in medical literature.
Related Terms
- Renal system: The organ system that produces, stores, and eliminates urine.
- Congenital anomalies: Abnormalities of structure or function that are present at birth.
- Renal capsule: The connective tissue covering the external surface of the kidney.
- Fascia: A band or sheet of connective tissue beneath the skin that attaches, stabilizes, encloses, and separates muscles and other internal organs.
Causes
The exact cause of a supernumerary kidney is unknown. However, it is believed to occur during the embryonic development of the urinary system. It is thought to result from the premature division of the nephrogenic cord into two or more parts.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of a supernumerary kidney can be challenging due to its rarity and the lack of specific symptoms. It is often discovered incidentally during imaging studies for other conditions. Imaging techniques such as Ultrasound, Computed Tomography (CT) scan, and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) can help in the diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment for a supernumerary kidney is not necessary unless it causes symptoms or complications such as infection, obstruction, or malignancy. In such cases, surgical removal of the extra kidney may be required.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Supernumerary kidney
- Wikipedia's article - Supernumerary kidney
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