Pediatric duplex kidney (duplicated collecting system)

What is a pediatric duplex kidney (duplicated collecting system)?

In a normal urinary system, each of a child’s kidneys is connected to a single ureter (tube that drains urine into the bladder). In a child with a duplex kidney, two ureters are coming from a single kidney. Duplex kidneys can occur in only one or both kidneys. Duplex kidneys – also known as a duplicated collecting system – are a fairly common condition in healthy children, and usually do not require treatment.

What are the signs and symptoms of a pediatric duplex kidney (duplicated collecting system)?

• Frequent leaking of urine

• Obstruction in the urinary tract that causes poor urine flow

• Tissue protruding from the urethra opening in the vagina (in girls)

• Urinary incontinence

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)

What are the causes of a pediatric duplex kidney (duplicated collecting system)?

The cause of duplex kidney is unknown, but is most likely due to genetic factors.