Obstructive Uropathy

Obstructive uropathy is a broad term referring to any disease of the upper or lower urinary tract that restricts the flow of urine. It is one of the most common congenital urinary tract abnormalities in children. It can be acute or chronic, partial or complete, and one-sided or two.

If not treated it can lead to urinary tract infection, sepsis, and eventually kidney failure. There are several causes, but typical symptoms include changes in urination patterns, pain upon urination, and blood in the urine. Blood tests reveal an increased number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.

Diagnosis will be made after physical examination, blood tests, and urinalysis. Then imaging such as CT, MRI, IV pyelogram, and ultrasound is used to find the site of the blockage.

After determining the condition and location, there are several medical and surgical options to eliminate the obstruction and symptoms.