Imaging of congenital genitourinary anomalies

Pediatr Radiol. 2022 Apr;52(4):726-739. doi: 10.1007/s00247-021-05217-2. Epub 2021 Nov 5.

Abstract

Congenital genitourinary anomalies are among the most frequent types of birth defects in neonates. Some anomalies can be a significant cause of morbidity in infancy, while others remain asymptomatic even until adulthood and can be at times the only manifestation of a complex systemic disease. The spectrum of these anomalies results from the developmental insults that can occur at various embryologic stages, and an understanding of the formation of the genitourinary system is helpful in the evaluation and treatment of a child with a congenital genitourinary anomaly. Imaging plays an essential role in the diagnosis of congenital genitourinary anomalies and treatment planning. In this article, we highlight the embryologic and characteristic imaging features of various congenital genitourinary anomalies, demonstrate the utility of different imaging modalities in management, and review specific imaging modalities and protocols for image optimization.

Keywords: Congenital anomaly; Genitourinary tract; Kidneys; Magnetic resonance imaging; Müllerian duct anomaly; Neonates; Ultrasound.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Child
  • Diagnostic Imaging
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Male
  • Urogenital Abnormalities* / diagnostic imaging
  • Urogenital System / diagnostic imaging