We report the case of a 35-year-old man who presented with fever, diarrhea,
and a left abdominal mass. Diagnostic studies confirmed Crohn disease and
revealed an abdominal mass obstructing the left ureter with hydroureter and
hydronephrosis. The patient was successfully treated conservatively, with
corticosteroids and mesalamine. A review of the literature indicates a pred
ominance of right ureteral involvement in Crohn disease, associated with a
high incidence of ileocecal disease. Most of these patients were treated su
rgically, with resection of ileocecal lesion and/or ureterolysis. Ureteral
obstruction as a complication of Crohn disease is discussed, with emphasis
on conservative treatment.