Nephroptosis

Nephroptosis is a medical condition characterized by the abnormal dropping or displacement of a kidney from its normal anatomical position. This usually occurs in the lower back, typically affecting the right kidney more commonly than the left. The kidney is normally held in place by connective tissues, muscles, and the surrounding fat pad. When these structures weaken or are insufficient, the kidney can become mobile and descend.

The exact cause of nephroptosis is not always clear, but factors such as rapid weight loss, pregnancy, trauma, or congenital weakness of the supporting tissues can contribute. Many individuals with nephroptosis experience no symptoms and the condition is often discovered incidentally during imaging tests for other reasons. However, when symptoms do occur, they can include flank pain, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes blood in the urine. The pain is often intermittent and may be more pronounced when standing or during physical activity, leading to the colloquial term "floating kidney."

Diagnosis typically involves medical history, physical examination, and imaging studies such as ultrasound, CT scans, or intravenous pyelograms to confirm the displaced position of the kidney and assess its function. Treatment for nephroptosis depends on the presence and severity of symptoms. In asymptomatic cases, no treatment may be necessary. For symptomatic individuals, conservative management might include weight gain to increase the protective fat pad, or lifestyle modifications to avoid activities that worsen pain. In rare and severe cases where symptoms are debilitating and persistent, surgical intervention, such as nephropexy (surgical fixation of the kidney), may be considered.