The single ectopic ureter.

A significant number of ureters with ectopic insertion occur in the single (nonduplex) collecting system. We have investigated 16 patients with this anomaly whose ureters were abnormal enough to cause problems. Characteristic symptoms at presentation included a pelvic mass, ureterovesical obstruction, a ureterocele, urinary dribbling, epididymitis, and infection of the urinary tract with or without reflux. Radiographic evaluation is usually possible using only intravenous urogarphy and voiding cystourethrography. Nonvisualization of one kidney in association with one of the above findings should suggest a single ectopic ureter. Particular attention should be paid to the site of ureteral insertion whenever reflux is seen.