Vesicoureteral Reflux

Overview

Vesicoureteral reflux is the abnormal backward flow of urine from the bladder into the ureters and sometimes the kidneys. It's often diagnosed in children after a urinary tract infection prompts further evaluation.

Symptoms

●Recurrent urinary tract infections

●Fever accompanying a UTI

●Flank or abdominal pain

●Poor growth in infants (rare, severe cases)

Causes

A valve mechanism at the junction where the ureter enters the bladder fails to close properly, allowing urine to flow backward. Most cases are congenital.

Risk Factors

Family history — Siblings of an affected child have a higher likelihood.

Congenital urinary tract abnormalities — Associated with a higher incidence.

Being female — More commonly diagnosed in girls.

Young age — Most commonly identified in infants and young children.

Diagnosis

Ultrasound and a voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) are used to confirm the diagnosis and grade its severity.

Complications If Untreated

Untreated reflux raises the risk of recurrent kidney infections and can lead to kidney scarring over time.

Prevention Tips

Prompt treatment of urinary tract infections in children reduces the risk of kidney scarring associated with reflux.

Lifestyle Advice

Completing prescribed antibiotic courses fully and attending recommended follow-up imaging supports the best long-term kidney outcomes.