Hydronephrosis

Question 1

Definition

Answer 1

Water inside the kidney which causes dilation of the pelvicalyceal system

Question 2

Arises due to both an acute or gradual obstruction. True or false?

Answer 2

Gradual obstruction only

Question 3

Hydronephrosis can result in renal failure. True or false?

Answer 3

True

- urine back pressure compresses the nephrons within the medullary pyramids causing renal failure

Question 4

Causes

Answer 4

Urinary tract obstruction
- calculi
- tumour
Reflux

Question 5

Unilateral hydronephrosis - where is the obstruction (proximal or distal)

Answer 5

Proximal urinary tract

Question 6

Bilateral hydronephrosis - where is the obstruction (proximal or distal)

Answer 6

Distal urinary tract

Question 7

Clinical features

Answer 7

Pain

- loin pain on the affected side

Question 8

Examination

Answer 8

Ballot the kidneys

- renal enlargement

Question 9

Pathology

Answer 9

Marked cortical thinning
Atrophy
Fibrosis
Dilation of the pelvicalyceal system

Question 10

Management

Answer 10

Percutaneous nephrostomy (if infection)