Chronic bilateral obstructive uropathy

Definition

Chronic bilateral obstructive uropathy is a long-term blockage of urine flow from both kidneys. It is a slow blockage that gets worse over time.

Bilateral means "both sides."

See also:

• Chronic unilateral obstructive uropathy
• Acute unilateral obstructive uropathy
• Acute bilateral obstructive uropathy

Alternative Names

Causes

The most common cause of chronic bilateral obstructive uropathy is a condition called bladder outlet obstruction. The kidneys produce urine in the normal manner but the urine cannot leave the bladder. Urine backs up, causing kidney swelling and damage.

When the blockage causes urine to back up into both kidneys, hydronephrosis (swelling of the kidneys) results. High blood pressure and kidney failure can result.

In men, chronic bilateral obstructive uropathy is most often a result of a benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Other causes of chronic bilateral obstructive uropathy include:

• Bladder tumors
• Prostate tumors
• Tumors or masses of the uterus or other structures around the bladder neck or urethra
• Retroperitoneal fibrosis
• Narrowing of the urethra due to a birth defect or scar tissue

Chronic bilateral obstructive uropathy occurs in about 1 out of every 1,000 people.

References

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

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