Prune Belly Syndrome
Prune Belly Syndrome Definition
Prune belly syndrome is a congenital defect that occurs in about 1 in 30,000 newborn babies. It is a rare birth defect of the urinary system. The disease got its name because of the wrinkled skin that develops in the abdomens of those affected. Prune belly syndrome is also known as Abdominal Muscle Deficiency Syndrome, Eagle-Barrett Syndrome, and Obrinsky Syndrome.
Prune Belly Syndrome Diagnosis
Prune belly syndrome can be observed during an ultrasound procedure. An unusual large abdominal mass is seen in the abdominal area, and the abdomen tends to swell because of the urine. Urinary tract infections often occur in patients with prune belly syndrome.
Prune Belly Syndrome Symptoms and Signs
Among the symptoms of the prune belly syndrome are the partial or complete absence of abdominal muscles. Wrinkled skin may cover the abdomen. Males acquire undescended testicles, and the urinary tract may have extra large ureter, a distended bladder, and the urine may flow from the bladder back to the ureters and kidneys.
Prune Belly Syndrome Treatment
Treatment of the prune belly syndrome depends on how severe the symptoms last. Vesicotomy is one option to allow the bladder to drain, and it is done by making a hole in the abdomen. In other cases, surgical remodeling is done to the urinary tract. Many patients however experience renal failure.