Unilateral hydronephrosis
Definition
Unilateral hydronephrosis is swelling of one kidney due to a backup of urine.
See also: Bilateral hydronephrosis
Causes
Hydronephrosis is a condition that occurs with a disease. It is not a disease itself. Conditions that are often associated with unilateral hydronephrosis include:
- Acute unilateral obstructive uropathy
- Chronic unilateral obstructive uropathy
- Vesicoureteric reflux (backflow of urine from bladder to kidney)
- Nephrolithiasis (kidney stones)
- Hydronephrosis that occurs without a known cause during pregnancy
Unilateral hydronephrosis occurs in approximately 1 in 100 people.
Symptoms
- Flank pain
- Abdominal mass
- Nausea and vomiting
- Urinary tract infection
- Fever
- Painful urination (dysuria)
- Increased urinary frequency
- Increased urinary urgency
Treatment
Treatment and prognosis for unilateral hydronephrosis depend on what is causing the kidney swelling. Treatment may include:
- A ureteral stent (tube that allows the ureter to drain into the bladder)
- A nephrostomy tube (allows the blocked urine to drain through the back)
- Antibiotics for infections
Patients who have only one kidney, who have immune-compromising disorders such as diabetes or HIV, or who have received a transplant should be treated promptly.
Preventative antibiotics may be prescribed to decrease the risk of urinary tract infections in patients who have long-term hydronephrosis.
Prognosis
Prolonged hydronephrosis results in the eventual loss of kidney function.
Prevention
Prevention of the disorders associated with unilateral hydronephrosis will prevent this condition.