During the embryonic stage, the renal tissue and ureteral bud on one side fail to develop, resulting in a solitary kidney on the opposite side. This condition is not uncommon. However, due to the absence of clinical symptoms, its incidence is difficult to estimate. Approximately 1 in 1,000 to 1,500 births involves a solitary kidney. It is more common in males than females and occurs more frequently on the left side than the right. The side without a kidney often also lacks a ureter. Due to physiological demands, the remaining kidney often undergoes compensatory hypertrophy. If the solitary kidney has normal morphology and function, no clinical intervention is required.

bubble_chart Clinical Manifestations

1. Usually asymptomatic, often discovered incidentally during physical examinations by instruments.

2. Cystoscopy reveals asymmetry in the trigone of the bladder, with absence of one ureteral orifice.

3. The solitary kidney is larger in size compared to normal.

﹝Auxiliary Examinations﹞

1. If a solitary kidney presents no clinical symptoms, no further examinations are necessary; only regular observation is required.

2. If complications such as stones, subcutaneous nodes, renal impairment, or suspected malignancy occur in the solitary kidney, examinations A, B, or even C should be performed to aid in diagnosis and guide treatment selection.

bubble_chart Diagnosis

1. A solitary kidney without clinical symptoms may not require any examination, only regular observation and understanding;

2. If a solitary kidney presents with stones, subcutaneous nodes, renal impairment, or suspected malignancy, then examinations under Item A, Item B, or even Item C should be conducted to assist doctors in diagnosis and treatment selection.

1. No treatment is needed for those without complications.

2. If complications such as stones, subcutaneous nodes, or trauma occur, the treatment plan should be determined under the premise of preserving the kidney, protecting renal function, and maintaining life. Avoid mistakenly removing a solitary kidney.

3. If the renal function of a solitary kidney is severely impaired, dialysis or kidney transplantation is recommended.