About Prune Belly Syndrome

What is Prune Belly Syndrome?

Prune Belly Syndrome (PBS) is a rare congenital disorder characterized by the absence of abdominal muscles, urinary tract abnormalities, and undescended testes in males. It is also known as Eagle-Barrett Syndrome, Triad Syndrome, and Abdominal Muscle Deficiency Syndrome. Symptoms may include a wrinkled, “prune-like” appearance of the abdomen, urinary tract infections, and kidney and bladder problems. Treatment typically involves surgery to correct the urinary tract abnormalities and to reconstruct the abdominal wall.

What are the symptoms of Prune Belly Syndrome?

The main symptoms of Prune Belly Syndrome include:

-Weak or absent abdominal muscles
-Enlarged kidneys
-Urinary tract abnormalities
-Undescended testicles
-Abdominal wall defects
-Abdominal hernias
-Constipation
-Urinary tract infections
-Kidney stones
-Delayed development
-Breathing problems
-Feeding difficulties
-Heart defects
-Hernias in the groin area
-Low birth weight

What are the causes of Prune Belly Syndrome?

Prune Belly Syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that is caused by a mutation in the gene that controls the development of the abdominal muscles. The exact cause of the mutation is unknown, but it is believed to be related to a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

What are the treatments for Prune Belly Syndrome?

The primary treatment for Prune Belly Syndrome is surgery. This surgery is typically done in stages, beginning with the reconstruction of the urinary tract. This may involve reconstructing the bladder, ureters, and urethra. Other surgeries may be necessary to correct the abdominal wall defects, hernias, and other associated problems. In some cases, a kidney transplant may be necessary.

In addition to surgery, physical therapy and other treatments may be recommended to help improve the patient's quality of life. These may include exercises to strengthen the abdominal muscles, breathing exercises, and treatments to help with bladder control. In some cases, medications may be prescribed to help with pain management and other symptoms.

What are the risk factors for Prune Belly Syndrome?

1. Genetic mutations
2. Maternal diabetes
3. Maternal obesity
4. Maternal smoking
5. Maternal alcohol consumption
6. Maternal age over 35
7. Maternal use of certain medications
8. Maternal exposure to certain environmental toxins
9. Family history of Prune Belly Syndrome

Is there a cure/medications for Prune Belly Syndrome?

There is no cure for Prune Belly Syndrome, but medications can be used to help manage the symptoms. These medications may include antibiotics to treat urinary tract infections, diuretics to reduce fluid retention, and medications to relax the bladder muscles. Surgery may also be necessary to correct some of the physical abnormalities associated with Prune Belly Syndrome.