Incidental discovery of ectopic kidney in a patient with psychogenic erectile dysfunction: a case report in Delta state Nigeria

Abstract

Ectopic kidney is described as the failure of either one or both kidneys to ascend into their anatomical position. The major classifications are simple ectopia (thoracic, abdominal and pelvic) - abnormally located kidney on the same side and cross ectopia- abnormally located kidney on the opposite side. It is a rare occurrence with a prevalence of 1 in 3000 and very limited data especially with the co-association with erectile dysfunction (ED). This is a case report of a 47-year-old male civil servant with difficulty sustaining penile erection noticed one week before presenting at the hospital facility. Prior to onset of symptom, he had over 40-hours weekly work-relate. He had no chronic diseases. Although overweight, general and systemic examination findings were normal. Investigations done were ultrasound and computed tomography scan of the Abdomino-pelvic region which revealed a right kidney located in the right iliac fossa and pelvis respectively. He was subsequently counseled on the need for adequate rest and stress management. A rare incidental finding of ectopic kidney co-occurring with ED, this case underscores the importance of maintaining a high index of suspicion for congenital renal anomalies, especially when adult patients present with non-specific genitourinary symptoms such as ED. Although, ED can be asymptomatic, their presence can lead to complications such as urinary tract infections, nephrolithiasis, and renal dysfunction. In this case, the discovery of a right-sided pelvic ectopic kidney in a patient with ED highlights the importance of comprehensive diagnostic evaluation in patients presenting with urological symptoms.