Nephroptosis in a young woman with joint laxity.
BACKGROUND
A 25-year-old woman was evaluated repeatedly from 10 months following her first pregnancy and delivery for recurrent episodes of lower right quadrant abdominal pain, hematuria and a sensation of mass. Despite investigations by several physicians over a 7 month period no clear diagnosis had been made, but a psychosomatic disorder or possible periodic blocked bowel had been suggested, after which the patient requested a consultation with a nephrologist. Her history indicated joint laxity syndrome and a mitral valve prolapse. She was undergoing continuing evaluation for a possible rheumatic condition.


METHODS
Full history, physical examination, and intravenous pyelography.


METHODS
Nephroptosis of the right kidney.


METHODS
Exercises were prescribed to strengthen her abdominal musculature and she was advised to wear an elastic abdominal corset during the daytime. The patient is currently considering surgical intervention.
Clark
Barbara A
BA
Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, USA. baclarkmd76@hotmail.com
Sekhon
Amandeep
A
D015746:Abdominal Pain / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000209:etiology; D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007593:Joint Instability / Q000209:etiology*; D007674:Kidney Diseases / Q000150:complications* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D014567:Urography