Ectopic Intrathoracic Kidney Presenting as Recurrent Pneumonias in a 1-year-old Infant: A Case Report

Abstract

Ectopic intrathoracic kidney is a rare congenital anomaly, representing less than 5% of all renal ectopias. Most cases are discovered in asymptomatic adult patients undergoing imaging exams for unrelated reasons. Less than twenty cases of thoracic kidneys in the infant group have been reported in the literature, mostly comprising asymptomatic patients. Herein, we report a case of an 18-month-old boy with recurrent pneumonia episodes who was found to have a right-sided intrathoracic ectopic kidney. A brief literature review addressing the pathogenesis, prognosis, and treatment of this condition is also presented.

Imaging of Intrathoracic Ectopic Kidney

“…3 The reduced kidney should be monitored by renal Doppler ultrasonography and renal cortical scintigraphy in subsequent follow-ups. [3][4][5] The intrathoracic kidney is one of the rare causes of the congenital ectopic kidney. Ultrasonography is not always enough for diagnosis.…”

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The ectopic kidney is one of the common congenital anomalies of the urinary system and kidney, and the intrathoracic kidney is one of the rare causes of this anomaly. [1][2][3][4][5] Four basic types of the intrathoracic ectopic kidney have been defined: a closed diaphragm, diaphragm evening, traumatic diaphragmatic rupture, and congenital diaphragmatic hernia. 2,4,6 A case referred to our clinic with a prediagnosis of renal agenesis and diagnosed as the intrathoracic ectopic kidney is discussed in the following.

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“…[1][2][3][4][5] Four basic types of the intrathoracic ectopic kidney have been defined: a closed diaphragm, diaphragm evening, traumatic diaphragmatic rupture, and congenital diaphragmatic hernia. 2,4,6 A case referred to our clinic with a prediagnosis of renal agenesis and diagnosed as the intrathoracic ectopic kidney is discussed in the following. Before the study, the patient's parents were informed and an informed consent form was signed.…”