Question
Our baby was diagnosed with bladder exstrophy two days ago, and both parents are in a state of panic. The main symptoms are: the child often has urine seeping through their pants, and the baby has been diagnosed with a urinary tract infection. Everyone thought it was due to improper care, so they took medication for a long time, but it didn’t work. After a thorough check-up, they found out about this condition. How can we assist? Does having frequent leakage and a urinary tract infection necessarily mean bladder exstrophy? What are the symptoms?
Answer
The symptoms of bladder exstrophy include: partial scars on the lower abdominal wall of the child, everted bladder mucosa exposed, bright red, and abnormally sensitive, prone to bruising and skin breakdown. It is evident with bilateral slightly protruding ureteral orifices that have intermittent urination, wet clothing, and accompanied by urine odor. The skin on the lower abdominal wall, perineum, and inner side of the thigh may develop dermatitis or eczema again. The size of the everted bladder varies greatly. The early everted bladder mucosa is smooth but can become roughened, develop polyps, or exhibit squamous epithelial metaplasia due to long-term exposure and mechanical friction. The bladder wall thickens and hardens due to fibrosis of the detrusor muscle.