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Chronic unilateral obstructive uropathy - Overview

Alternative Names

Ureteral obstruction - chronic; Obstructive uropathy - unilateral - chronic

Definition of Chronic unilateral obstructive uropathy:

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.

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).

Other causes include:

Narrowing of the ureter that is present at birth (congenital), most commonly right below the kidney, a condition called ureteropelvic junction obstruction
Injury to the ureter from prior abdominal or pelvic surgery

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.

Kidney anatomy

Female urinary tract

Male urinary tract

Reviewed last on: 3/22/2010
Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine; Scott Miller, MD, Urologist in private practice in Atlanta, Georgia. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Wein AJ, et al. Campbell-Walsh Urology. 9th ed. St. Louis, Mo: WB Saunders; 2007.

Goldman L, Ausiello D, et al. Cecil Textbook of Medicine, 22nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders; 2004:741-742.

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