Retroperitoneal Lipoma: An Unusual Etiology of Urge Incontinence

Abstract

Urge incontinence is the most frequent type of urinary incontinence that can be due to bladder outlet obstruction or overactive bladder. A focused history is crucial to identify the type of urinary incontinence and the possible etiology. We report the case of a 67-year-old man with urinary frequency, urgency, and nocturia. However, his urine stream is normal with no history of an intermittent stream, hesitancy, or postvoid dribbling. Digital rectal examination revealed normal prostatic size. Urinalysis results were normal. Urine culture showed no growth. The patient was prescribed symptomatic treatment in the form of anticholinergic medication but failed to provide any clinical improvement. Urodynamic studies suggested the diagnosis of detrusor instability. A computed tomography (CT) scan of the abdomen was performed and demonstrated the presence of a large retroperitoneal lipoma exerting a mass effect on the bladder. The mass was successfully resected by laparotomy operation. Following the operation, the patient had complete resolution of his symptoms. The retroperitoneal region is an extremely rare site for lipoma. Patients with urinary urgency should be carefully evaluated for any structural lesion causing a compressive effect on the bladder.