Prune Belly Syndrome

Prune belly syndrome, also known as Eagle-Barrett Syndrome, is a complicated defect that occurs during gestation and involves the development of the kidneys, bladder, abdominal wall, and testes. It is virtually exclusively seen in boys.   This problem presents with a spectrum of severity.  At one end of the spectrum, very little intervention is necessary, and at the other end, there is poor kidney and lung function, so survival is not possible.

Typical Findings of Prune Belly Syndrome

The kidneys are usually hydronephrotic, meaning that the central part of the kidneys is dilated and abnormally holds urine.  Also, the kidney tissue that makes urine may be poorly developed (dysplasia). Usually, the tubes leading from the kidneys to the bladder, called the ureters, are dilated, and not uncommonly, vesicoureteral reflux or partial blockage (obstruction) is present.  Vesicoureteral reflux means a regurgitation of urine from the bladder back up to the kidneys.  The bladder, likewise, is usually stretched and dilated and may not empty well. Characteristically, the testes are present but undescended and are found within the abdomen. The abdominal wall has poor muscle tone, particularly in the lower regions, and may appear lax and wrinkled, giving rise to this syndrome’s name.

This uncommon problem occurs with an incidence of approximately 1 in 40,000 live births.  Although there have been associations with genetic defects, most children have normal genetic studies, and the cause of prune belly syndrome has not been determined.

Associated Findings of Prune Belly Syndrome

Several additional problems may or may not be present in children with prune belly syndrome. Orthopedic-related problems occur in approximately 45% of children and include chest wall deformities, scoliosis, hip dislocation, and clubfoot. Pulmonary and respiratory problems occur in approximately 50%, and heart defects are present in 10%.

Prune Belly Syndrome Diagnosis

The condition is apparent at birth due to the appearance of the abdominal wall. Prenatal diagnosis of prune belly syndrome is possible during maternal-fetal ultrasound imaging.  In fact, most patients are now diagnosed by this means.

Unique Care

Each child with prune belly syndrome is unique, and care must be individualized. In addition, expert care from multiple specialties is essential. It initially may include neonatology, cardiology, pulmonology, orthopedics, nephrology, and urology. The overriding goals of urology management are to eliminate obstruction if present, improve kidney and bladder drainage, and reduce the risk of urinary tract infection.

Children are usually started on low-dose, once-a-day antibiotics (prophylaxis) to prevent infection. Some children will require only surgery to correct the position of the testes, which is done in infancy. Others may require reconstruction of the urinary tract and abdominal wall.

Occasionally, urinary diversion procedures during early infancy allow for better urinary tract drainage during the first few years of life. A temporary vesicostomy is performed if the bladder cannot empty on its own. This involves bringing the bladder to a small opening on the lower abdominal wall so that the urine can freely drain outside and be easily captured in a diaper. Blockages in the ureter are corrected, and vesicoureteral reflux may require surgery, which reconnects the ureters to the bladder wall in an anti-refluxing fashion. Abdominal wall reconstruction can be performed to eliminate the lax, redundant appearance and provide a smooth contour.

Regular Follow-Ups

Regular follow-ups with a urologist are required throughout life to monitor kidney function, drainage of the urinary tract, and prevention of infections. Infections are the main cause of sudden loss of kidney function. Exceptionally, if renal dysplasia is present, there may be a slow deterioration in kidney function over time. Some children may need kidney transplants, but generally do well if this is necessary. Many advances in medical science in the last few decades have allowed for much better care of children with prune belly syndrome and much better outcomes.  Our urologists are committed to providing long-term care for children with prune belly syndrome. Except for those children most severely affected, most children not only survive but go on to lead active, productive lives.