Chronic unilateral obstructive uropathy Health Article

Definition

Chronic unilateral obstructive uropathy is a condition in which there is long-term blockage of one of the tubes (ureters) that drains urine from the kidneys.

See also:

• Acute unilateral obstructive uropathy
• Acute bilateral obstructive uropathy
• Chronic bilateral obstructive uropathy
• Obstructive uropathy

Alternative Names

Ureteral obstruction - chronic; Obstructive uropathy - unilateral - chronic

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Unilateral obstructive uropathy usually occurs when ureteral or kidney stones block the flow of urine. Urine backs up and causes kidney swelling (hydronephrosis).

Risk factors for unilateral obstructive uropathy include:

• Kidney stones
• Tumors in surrounding structures such as uterus, cervix, or lymph nodes
• Ureteral stones and tumors

Chronic unilateral obstructive uropathy occurs in approximately 5 out of every 1,000 people.

Symptoms

• Abdominal pain, right or left lower belly area
• Back pain, may be on only one side
• Blood in the urine
• Increased urinary frequency/urgency
• Frequent need to urinate at night
• Painful urination
• Severe flank pain that may occur on one side, but may also be felt in the groin, thigh, and genitals
• Urinary tract infection

Signs and tests

Your health care provider will perform a physical exam, which includes feeling your abdomen. The exam may reveal a swollen kidney.

A blood pressure measure may reveal high blood pressure. A urinalysis may show blood in the urine. A urine culture can determine if you have an infection.

Kidney swelling or blockage of the ureter may appear on these tests:

• Abdominal ultrasound
• Intravenous pyelogram (IVP)
• Kidney or abdominal CT scan

Treatment

The goal of treatment is to reduce or remove the blockage.

Stents or drains placed in the ureter or in the renal pelvis may provide short-term relief of symptoms.

A nephrostomy tube, which drains urine from the kidney through the back, may be used to relieve the blockage.

Surgery to repair the underlying cause will usually correct the blockage.