Obstructive uropathy

Alternative Names

Uropathy - obstructive

Symptoms

Symptoms associated with obstructive uropathy vary depending on whether the obstruction is acute or chronic, whether it is unilateral or bilateral, whether it is complete or partial, and what caused it. Common symptoms of obstructive uropathy include the following:

• Flank pain
  • Bilateral or unilateral
  • Colicky or severe
• Urinary tract infection
• Fever
• Difficulty or pain while urinating
• Nausea or vomiting
• Renal failure
• Weight gain or swelling (edema)
• Decreased urine output
• Blood in the urine

Exams and Tests

The diagnosis of obstructive uropathy is made on imaging studies. Common radiographic studies used to diagnose obstructive uropathy include:

• Abdominal ultrasound
• Abdominal CT scan
• Intravenous pyelogram (IVP)
• Voiding cystourethrogram
• Renal nuclear scan

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.