Summary
Urethral diverticula have been described in other species. Congenital
anomalies of the urinary tract in horses are rare.
A 26-year-old gelding presented with complaints of abdominal discomfort
and dysuria. Urine dribbling was reported since several years. General
clinical examination was within normal limits. Rectal palpation showed a
distended bladder, which was emptied spontaneously after manipulation.
Urine cytology showed an increased white blood cell count and presence
of bacteria. Bacterial culture however remained sterile. Cystoscopy
identified two symmetrical urethral diverticula dorsal to the entrance
of the bladder, lined with normal epithelium. Mucosa of the bladder,
urethra and two diverticula were hyperemic with evidence of urine
accumulation in both diverticula. Ultrasound, abdominal and transrectal,
did not identify the diverticula. Treatment included
trimethoprim-sulfamides and meloxicam. After 2 weeks, the owner reported
resolution of clinical signs.
It is unclear if the diverticula in this case were congenital or
acquired. In humans it is described that urethral diverticula can be
asymptomatic and incidental findings. Surgical intervention has been
described in small animal and human medicine with complete resolution of
clinical signs, however in this case was not possible due to financial
restraints.