Overview
Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is the backup of urine from the organ that stores urine (bladder) into the tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder (ureter) during urination. VUR may result in urine reflux into the renal pelvis, causing distention (hydronephrosis) and kidney damage. In children, this condition is usually caused by an abnormality that is present at birth (congenital) and is often diagnosed during prenatal ultrasound.
Types
There are two types of VUR: primary and secondary. Primary reflux is caused by a congenital (present at birth) abnormality, and secondary reflux is caused by a urinary tract infection (UTI) or an obstruction in the urinary tract.
Reflux is graded according to its severity:
- Grade I results in urine reflux into the ureter only.
- Grade II results in urine reflux into the ureter and the renal pelvis, without distention (hydronephrosis).
- Grade III results in urine reflux into the ureter and the renal pelvis, causing mild hydronephrosis.
- Grade IV results in moderate hydronephrosis.
- Grade V results in severe hydronephrosis and twisting of the ureter.
Incidence and Prevalence
VUR is diagnosed in 17–37% of prenatal ultrasounds. The condition is more prevalent in females and in children who have red hair. One-third of UTIs in children are caused by vesicoureteral reflux.
Physician-developed and -monitored.
Original Date of Publication: 10 Jun 1998
Reviewed by: Stanley J. Swierzewski, III, M.D.
Last Reviewed: 04 Dec 2007
Vesicoureteral Reflux (VUR), Overview reprinted with permission from urologychannel.com
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