Fetal Urinary Ascites From Bladder Rupture: A Rare Complication of Posterior Urethral Valve

Cureus. 2024 Aug 8;16(8):e66462. doi: 10.7759/cureus.66462. eCollection 2024 Aug.

Abstract

Prenatal ultrasonography (USG) plays a crucial role in diagnosing fetal urinary tract anomalies and distinguishing between lower urinary tract obstructive (LUTO) and neurological causes (seen with spinal dysraphism, myelomeningocele, meningocele, and sacral agenesis) of urinary bladder distension. Fetal urinary ascites, a rare but severe complication, can result from bladder rupture associated with obstructive uropathy such as posterior urethral valves (PUV). This case study presents a rare instance of fetal urinary ascites due to PUV detected during prenatal ultrasonography at 20 weeks of gestation (WOG). By highlighting this uncommon but clinically significant condition, we aim to enhance the understanding and management of similar cases in clinical practice.

Keywords: antenatal sonography; bladder rupture; fetal urinary ascites; lower urinary tract obstruction (luto); posterior urethral valve.

Publication types

  • Case Reports