Epispadias

What is epispadias?

Epispadias is a rare, congenital (present at birth) condition in which the urethra (tube that empties urine from the bladder) does not fully form. Therefore, the urine exits the body from an abnormal location.

• In boys with this condition, the urethra typically opens on the top or side of the penis rather than on the tip.

• In girls with this condition, the urethra typically opens between the clitoris and the labia, but can also empty in the belly area.

What are the signs and symptoms of epispadias?

• Urine leaks after a child is potty trained (urinary incontinence)

• Abnormal appearance of a boy's penis (may be short, wide or curved)

• Abnormal appearance of a girl's clitoris and labia

What are the causes of epispadias?

Though the cause of epispadias is unknown, experts believe that the anomaly is related to improper development of the pubic bone.