May 2026, Volume 4, Issue 5

Author

Suvam Kumar, Sharada Sundaramurthy and Temsula Alinger

Abstract

Rectal duplication cysts are rare congenital malformations, accounting for approximately 4% of all gastrointestinal duplication cysts. While these anomalies often remain asymptomatic or present with vague gastrointestinal symptoms, acute urinary retention is an exceptionally rare manifestation. We report the case of a 3-year-old male child with recurrent episodes of acute urinary retention and constipation for three months, ultimately diagnosed as having a rectal duplication cyst. The child presented with a grossly distended urinary bladder and failed trials of catheter removal. Detailed clinical evaluation, imaging with contrast-enhanced CT scan, and per rectal examination led to the diagnosis. Laparotomy revealed a thick-walled retrorectal cyst without communication to the rectum. Complete surgical excision was performed, followed by a protective colostomy. Histopathological examination confirmed a rectal duplication cyst lined by preserved colonic mucosa. This case adds to the sparse literature of this rare entity presenting with bladder outlet obstruction symptoms and emphasizes the importance of thorough clinical and radiological evaluation in pediatric patients with recurrent urinary retention.