It affects about 1 in every 30,000 to 40,000 children.
The name describes the way the skin on children’s abdomens (bellies) wrinkles, resembling a prune.
Treatment can range from medication to surgery, based on the severity of the anomalies.
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This article describes prune belly syndrome, its causes, symptoms, and diagnosis.
It also explains the treatments and outlook for this problem.
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What Causes Prune Belly Syndrome?
The exact cause of prune belly syndrome is unknown.
Research indicates that the condition iscongenital(present from birth) with no known environmental causes.
In 95% of babies affected with prune belly syndrome, the sex assigned at birth is male.
Prune belly syndrome develops as the fetus grows before birth.
If a blockage exists, urine builds up in the bladder, causing pressure and swelling.
When the fluid drains after birth, it leaves a wrinkled abdomen that resembles a prune.
The shriveled skin is more noticeable since there is also a lack of healthy abdominal muscles.
Some cases of prune belly syndrome have occurred in siblings.
While this indicates a possible genetic factor to the disease, the link is not well understood.
Prune Belly Syndrome Symptoms
Prune belly syndrome symptoms can vary by individual.
They can range from mild to severe.
Goals for prune belly syndrome treatment include preserving kidney function and preventing urinary tract infections.
Surgery of the abdominal wall and urinary tract reconstruction are often required.
When possible, surgeries are combined to reduce the number of operating room trips.
These procedures often include:
People with prune belly disease are typically born with poorly formed or dilated kidneys.
Most people with prune belly syndrome are unable to fully empty their bladders because they lack strong abdominal muscles.
This makes them likely to have frequent urinary tract infections.
Children may be placed on prophylactic (preventive) antibiotics to help prevent UTIs.
Treating prune belly syndrome typically requires a large multidisciplinary approach involving various medical specialists.
There is no cure for prune belly syndrome.
The outlook for children and adults with this condition varies significantly based on disease severity and the defects involved.
Many people have good physical and mental health through adulthood.
Prenatal diagnosis and pregnancy termination have contributed to a declining incidence of prune belly syndrome in developed countries.
In some cases, the results are fatal.
The condition causes physical changes that are hard to overlook.
A child with prune belly syndrome is likely to get frequent UTIs.
Monitor how frequently your child urinates.
Babies born with this ailment have three main anatomical differences.
Symptoms vary since prune belly syndrome affects each person uniquely.
It is common to have frequent UTIs, which can lead to kidney damage.
Other anatomical anomalies can impact the intestines, lungs, and heart.
Prune belly syndrome is most often found in utero or at birth.
Early diagnosis can help babies get the right treatment as soon as possible for the best results.
The effects of prune belly syndrome are severe or deadly for some babies.
However, many babies have minor defects and remain in good physical and mental health through adulthood.
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