Fibroepithelial polyp of the lower urinary tract

I wanted to share a case of a 35-year old man with hypertension and reduced renal function (GFR about 70). Family history was significant for a paternal grandmother and mother with hypertension. No evidence of secondary causes of hypertension including renal artery stenosis, adrenal adenomas, pheochromocytoma, etc. After further questioning a history of urinary frequency was elicited. Ultrasound was done which surprisingly showed bilateral moderate hydronephrosis. Urologic work up included urodynamic studies which showed high bladder pressures and evidence of a bladder outlet obstruction. A cystoscopy showed a possible fibroepithelial polyp (similar to one pictured).

Fibroepithelial polyp of the lower urinary tract is a rare disorder. It usually occurs in pediatric patients but may develop in adults. It is considered non-malignant and treated with a transurethral resection. They usually do not recur. The differential diagnosis also includes a urethelial papilloma and inverted papilloma, both of which are benign but require periodic surveillance for recurrence with cystoscopy. For further reading.