Obstructive uropathy

Definition

Obstructive uropathy is a condition in which the flow of urine is blocked, causing it to back up and injure one or both kidneys.

Alternative Names

Uropathy - obstructive

Causes

Obstructive uropathy occurs when urine cannot drain through a ureter (a tube that carries urine from the kidneys to the bladder). Urine backs up into the kidney and causes it to become swollen (hydronephrosis).

Obstructive uropathy is grouped according to whether it affects one or both kidneys and whether it occurs suddenly or is long-term:

• Chronic unilateral obstructive uropathy - Long-term uropathy that affects one kidney
• Chronic bilateral obstructive uropathy - Long-term uropathy that affects both kidneys
• Acute unilateral obstructive uropathy - Sudden uropathy that affects one kidney
• Acute bilateral obstructive uropathy -Sudden uropathy that affects both kidneys

Common causes of obstructive uropathy include the following:

• Urinary tract stones
  • Ureteral stones
  • Bladder stones
• Urinary tract tumors
• Retroperitoneal fibrosis
• Benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate)
• Tumors of nearby organs
• Colon cancer
• Cervical cancer
• Uterine cancer
• Any cancer that spreads
• Idiopathic hydronephrosis of pregnancy

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.