Nephroptosis is rare and abnormal condition in which the kidney drops down (ptosis) into the pelvis when the patient stands up.

However, nephroptosis can be characterized by violent attacks of colicky flank pain, nausea, chills, hypertension, hematuria and proteinuria.

It is believed that flank pain on standing that is relieved by lying down is due to movement of the kidney causing intermittent renal tract obstruction.

[citation needed] It is believed to result from deficiency of supporting inferior pararenal fasciae.

Nephropexy was performed in the past to stabilize the kidney, but presently surgery is not recommended in asymptomatic patients.