Hydronephrosis
Hydronephrosis Causes
Causes include: blockage of the urinary system present at birth (congenital); a kidney or ureteral stone (nephrolithiasis); a blood clot; scarring of the ureter, usually from injury, radiation therapy or previous surgery; a tumor in or around the ureter; prostate gland enlargement (benign prostatic hyperplasia); and pregnancy.
Hydronephrosis Definition
Hydronephrosis is swelling (dilation) of the urine-collecting structures of one or both kidneys because of the obstruction of urine flow from the kidney. This can hinder kidney function. Hydronephrosis is not a specific disease, but a sign of an underlying problem.
Hydronephrosis Diagnosis
A doctor can confirm a diagnosis of hydronephrosis by: X-rays of the kidneys, such as dye studies (excretory urogram); computerized tomography (CT); ultrasound; magnetic resonance imaging (MRI); and cystoscopy and catheterization of the ureter with dye injection.
Hydronephrosis Symptoms and Signs
The signs and symptoms of hydronephrosis largely depends upon whether the obstruction is acute or chronic. Unilateral hydronephrosis may even arise without symptoms. Blood tests can show increased creatinine and electrolyte imbalance. Urinalysis may exhibit an elevated pH due to the secondary destruction of nephrons within the affected kidney. Symptoms that appear regardless of where the obstruction lies include loin or flank pain. An enlarged kidney can be palpable on examination.
Hydronephrosis Treatment
Treatment largely depends on the cause and the severity of the obstruction. Some blockages, such as from blood clots or a kidney stone, can heal itself without treatment. Surgery may be needed to relieve the blockage, though, rarely is surgical removal of the kidney be required.