Epispadias is a defect present at birth that is rare. With this condition, the urethra has not developed into a full tube so the urine leaves the body from a place that is wrong.

This condition is caused by a partially formed spectrum of failures in abdominal as well as pelvic fusion probably occurring in the first months of embroyogenesis referred to as the “exstropy-epispadias complex”. While epispadias is essential in all cases of exstroophy it may also less frequently develop in isolation as the form of the complex spectrum that is least severe. These malformations probably occur in the 5th gestation week.

Males normally have a wide and short penis with a curve that is abnormal. The urethra will possibly open on the top or side of the penis rather than at the tip. However, in some cases the urethra can open along the whole length of the penis.

Females have an abnormal labia and clitorus. The opening is normally between the labia and clitoris but it could be in the stomach area. Females might have problems controlling urination referred to as urinary incontinence.

For those individuals with more than just a mild case of epispadias will need correction with surgery. The leakage of urine or incontinence can usually be repaired at the same time. But, in some cases, a 2nd surgery might be needed. Some individuals with this defect might continue to suffer from urinary incontinence even after having the surgery.

Ureter and kidney damage as well as infertility may also occur with this condition.