Analiese Evans
Diagnosis of the Week
Dx:Hydronephrosis: This occurs when urine cannot drain from a kidney and builds up in the
renal pelvis, typically due to an anatomical obstruction or backflow (reflux).
Etiology: Blockages
Ureteropelvic Junction (UPJ): A blockage where the ureter attaches to the kidney.
Vesicoureteral Reflux (VUR): A condition where urine flows backward from the bladder
to the kidneys.
Posterior Urethral Valves (PUV): An abnormal membrane in the male urethra that blocks
urine flow (often diagnosed prenatally).
Ureterocele: A swelling at the bottom of the ureter that protrudes into the bladder.
Acquired Causes: Kidney stones, tumors, or scarring from previous urinary tract
infections (UTIs).
Treatment: Treatment is highly dependent on the severity of the swelling and the underlying
cause:
Observation: Mild to moderate cases are often monitored via serial ultrasounds, as many
children outgrow the condition without intervention.
Antibiotics: Low-dose prophylactic antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent UTIs,
especially in cases of VUR.
Surgical Intervention:
oPyeloplasty: To remove an obstruction and reconnect the ureter.
oDeflux Procedure: An injection to treat reflux.
