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Chronic unilateral obstructive uropathy

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Definition:

Urine is drained from the kidneys through tubes called ureters. Obstructive uropathy occurs when a one or both ureters becomes blocked. The condition may be acute or chronic .

Chronic unilateral obstructive uropathy involves a slow, progressive blockage of one ureter, resulting in a backup of urine and injury to the kidney.

Alternative Names:

Ureteral obstruction - chronic; Obstructive uropathy - unilateral - chronic

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Unilateral obstructive uropathy occurs when urine cannot drain through one of the tubes that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder. Urine backs up and causes kidney swelling ( hydronephrosis ).

This condition is usually caused by a blockage from ureteral or kidney stones.

Risks for unilateral obstructive uropathy include ureteral stones and tumors, kidney stones, and tumors in surrounding structures such as uterus, cervix, or lymph nodes.

The disorder damages structures of the urinary tract. It may result in permanent damage to the kidney and may be a cause of hypertension . It usually does not cause kidney failure because the second kidney continues to function.

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

References:

Walsh PC. Campbell's Urology . 8th ed. St. Louis, Mo: WB Saunders; 2002:412. 

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

• Review Date: 5/10/2006
• Reviewed By: Neil D. Sherman, MD, Urologist, Essex County, NJ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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