Hydronephrosis
Understand Hydronephrosis in Kidney Ultrasound Imaging imaging, what it means, and next steps.
30-Second Overview
Dilated renal collecting system with anechoic calyces; cortical thinning in chronic cases.
Indicates urinary tract obstruction; severity staging guides urgency.
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Imaging Appearance
Ultrasound Imaging FindingDilated renal collecting system with anechoic calyces; cortical thinning in chronic cases.
Clinical Significance
Indicates urinary tract obstruction; severity staging guides urgency.
What is Hydronephrosis?
Urine backup dilating the kidney. Ultrasound is first-line to detect obstruction.
Imaging Appearance
- Pelvicalyceal dilatation
- Ureteral dilation suggests distal obstruction
- Cortex thinning in chronic obstruction
Clinical Significance
- Prolonged obstruction can cause renal damage
- Severity graded (mild/moderate/severe)
Symptoms
- Flank pain, reduced urine, nausea; may be silent if chronic
Diagnosis
- Renal ultrasound; consider Doppler for resistive index
- Labs: creatinine/BUN/potassium for renal function
Treatment
- Relieve obstruction: stone management, catheter/stent, treat strictures
- Address infection promptly
Prognosis
- Good if obstruction relieved early; chronic changes may persist
What Should You Do?
- Seek evaluation if flank pain or rising creatinine.
- Follow up after intervention to confirm resolution.
- Hydrate and follow urology guidance for stone prevention.
Medical Disclaimer: Educational only; follow urology/nephrology advice.
Correlate with Lab Results
When Hydronephrosis appears on imaging, doctors often check these lab tests:
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