National Center for Advancing and Translational Sciences Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center, a program of the National Center for Advancing and Translational Sciences

Duplication of urethra


Other Names:
Urethral duplication
Categories:
Duplication of urethra is a very rare condition where there is an extra urethra, instead of the normal one. Urethral duplications can be classified into three types: incomplete urethral duplication (type 1), complete urethral duplication (type 2), and urethral duplication as a result of two bladdersThe urethra is the tube that connects the urinary bladder to the genitals for the removal of fluids from the body. In men, the urethra is a long tube that runs through the penis. In women, the urethra is shorter and emerges above the vaginal opening.[1][2] Click here to view a picture of the male urinary tract. Click here to view a picture of the female urinary tract.
Last updated: 8/4/2011
There are 3 different types of duplication of urethra. In type 1, the extra urethra arises from the primary urethra and may or may not extend to the external genitals. In type 2, the extra urethra either arises from another opening in the bladder or connects with the primary ureter at the opening of the bladder and then extends to the external genitals. The urethra can also connect with the primary urethra at the opening of the bladder and extend into the perineum (also called the Y-type). Type 3 is when there are two bladders that each give rise to a separate urethra that exits through the external genitals.[2] To view an illustration of these classifications, click here and view Figure 2 on page 2 of this journal article.

The clinical features of this abnormality are variable. People with complete urethral duplication can be asymptomatic or can present with a double stream of urine, incontinence, recurrent infections, or outflow obstructions. A double stream is the most common complaint and can be annoying, depending on where the extra opening in the genitals is located.[2]
Last updated: 7/15/2011
The exact cause of this condition is unknown; but it is probably due to a defect during the development of the embryo.[2]
Last updated: 7/15/2011
Treatment of this condition depends on the anatomy of the duplication and its clinical features. Some people with mild symptoms do not require surgery. However, sugery might be considered for disturbing symptoms, such as an annoying double stream or incontinence, or for cosmetic reasons.[2]
Last updated: 7/15/2011

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Organizations Supporting this Disease

These resources provide more information about this condition or associated symptoms. The in-depth resources contain medical and scientific language that may be hard to understand. You may want to review these resources with a medical professional.

In-Depth Information

  • Medscape Reference provides information on this topic. You may need to register to view the medical textbook, but registration is free.
  • The Monarch Initiative brings together data about this condition from humans and other species to help physicians and biomedical researchers. Monarch’s tools are designed to make it easier to compare the signs and symptoms (phenotypes) of different diseases and discover common features. This initiative is a collaboration between several academic institutions across the world and is funded by the National Institutes of Health. Visit the website to explore the biology of this condition.
  • Orphanet is a European reference portal for information on rare diseases and orphan drugs. Access to this database is free of charge.
  • PubMed is a searchable database of medical literature and lists journal articles that discuss Duplication of urethra. Click on the link to view a sample search on this topic.

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  • Last spring, my urologist told me that I had a urethral duplication. I have never received a clear picture of the prevalence. I never viewed the photos either. I'm also wondering about the cause and features of this condition.  See answer


  1. Urethral Disorders. MedlinePlus. http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/urethraldisorders.html. Accessed 7/15/2011.
  2. Erdil H, Mavi A et al. Urethral Duplication. Acta Med. Okayama. 2003; http://www.lib.okayama-u.ac.jp/www/acta/pdf/57_2_91.pdf. Accessed 7/15/2011.