Epispadias

Epispadias is a rare birth defect related to opening of the urethra. In this condition, the urethra  opens  at the dorsum of penis at a abnormal location. The causes of epispadias are unknown.

Epispadias can be associated with bladder exstrophy, However, epispadias can also occur in isolation. Epispadias occurs in one in 100,000 newborn boys. The condition is usually diagnosed at birth or shortly thereafter.

In males:

• Abnormal opening  on dorsum of the penis.

• Backward flow of urine into the kidney (reflux nephropathy)

• Short, widened penis with an abnormal curvature

• Urinary tract infections

• Widened pubic bone

In females:

• Abnormal clitoris and labia

• Abnormal opening from the bladder neck to the area above the normal urethral opening

• Backward flow of urine into the kidney (reflux nephropathy)

• Widened pubic bone

• Urinary incontinence

• Urinary tract infections

• Glanular Epispadias

• Penile Epispadias

• Penopubic Epispadias

• Blood test electrolyte levels,routine

• Intravenous pyelogram (IVP), a special X-ray of the kidneys, bladder and ureters.

• Pelvic X-ray

• Ultrasound of the urogenital system

• MRI and CT scans, depending on the condition

Surgical repair of epispadias is recommended in patients with more than a mild case. Leakage of urine (incontinence) is not uncommon and may require a second operation. Surgery generally leads to the ability to control the flow of urine and a good cosmetic outcome.