Seeking information regarding dilated kidneys in infants

light1's picture
Posted August 4th, 2007 by light1
in

Hi,

I was wondering if anyone could point me in the direction of information regarding condition that involves dilated kidneys in  infants.  Does anyone know of any treatments? Any info would be helpful

Thanks

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dr seuss's picture
On August 6th, 2007 dr seuss said:

Hi,

Dilated kidneys is usually the result of either urinary tract obstruction or bladder reflux.  Bladder reflux is evaluated by doing a VCUG (voiding cystoureterogram) in which they put a catheter into the bladder and inject saline, and then watch via xrays to make sure it doesn't go backwards into the kidney.  If there is reflux, then the baby should be on prophylactic antibiotics to prevent urinary tract infection.

Another common cause of obstruction is UPJ obstruction, which is blockage within the kidney, that can then cause dilation.  There is a surgery called pyeloplasty, in which the obstructed segment of the kidney is removed, and the ureter is re-attached to the kidney.  This is only done if there is moderate to severe kidney failure.  Kidney function is measured with radionuclear tests.  If the obstruction is mild and kidney function is normal, then they will usually just watch with repeat ultrasounds.

Also, many babies are found to have mild dilation of their kidneys on prenatal ultrasound.  This usually goes away after birth.  They usually do repeated ultrasounds at 3 days and 1month of life, and a VCUG to make sure there is no reflux. 

Hope this helps!