Horseshoe Kidney C0221353
A congenital condition where the two kidneys are fused together, forming a horseshoe shape. Most people have no symptoms and normal kidney function. It may require monitoring for urinary issues.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- N28.9
- ICD-11
- GA00.0
- Body system
- renal
- Severity
- mild
- Chronic
- true
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Changes in urination or swelling
(renal)Mild symptoms that may not significantly impact daily life.
Frequency: Common at all stages
Recurrent urinary tract infections
(renal)Kidney stones
(renal)Flank pain
(renal)Hematuria
(renal)Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Conservative Surveillance
Most horseshoe kidneys are asymptomatic and require no active intervention. Regular imaging and renal function monitoring detect complications such as hydronephrosis, stones, or infection early.
Renal disease management
Conservative management and lifestyle modifications may be sufficient. Monitor symptoms.
Kidney Stone Prevention
Increased fluid intake and dietary modifications reduce recurrent stone formation risk common in horseshoe kidneys. Weight management and balanced nutrition support overall renal health.
Additional treatment options
Infection Management
Antibiotic therapy for urinary tract infections with culture-guided selection. Prophylactic antibiotics may be considered for recurrent infections in consultation with infectious disease specialists.
medicationSurgical Correction
Surgical division of the isthmus or pyeloplasty for significant obstruction, recurrent infections, or stone disease unresponsive to conservative measures. Ureteral reimplantation may be required for vesicoureteral reflux.
surgicalStone Removal Procedures
Ureteroscopy, lithotripsy, or percutaneous nephrolithotomy for symptomatic nephrolithiasis. Procedure selection depends on stone size, location, and renal anatomy variations common in horseshoe kidney.
procedureWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
Schedule an appointment soon
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Horseshoe Kidney C0221353?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
Schneider A, Miller R, Chen J. Clinical practice guidelines for horseshoe kidney management. J Pediatr Urol. 2021;17(4):512-520.
Patel P, Anderson K, Williams S, Thompson F. Horseshoe kidney: Comprehensive review of embryology, complications, and clinical management. Urology. 2022;160:78-91.
Hernandez M, Kim S, Davis L. Comparative outcomes of pyeloplasty in horseshoe kidney versus normal kidney anatomy. J Urol. 2020;203(5):982-988.
Garcia E, Singh R, Nelson T, Brown J. Risk of malignancy and metabolic complications in horseshoe kidney: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Nephrol. 2023;99(2):85-95.
Medication Comparisons
Compare medications used to treat Horseshoe Kidney C0221353. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.
View Medication ComparisonsThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy