Vesicoureteral Reflux

Updated: July 23, 2024

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Background

Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is characterized by abnormal urine flow from the back of the bladder into the ureters and potentially into the kidneys. Urine travels from the kidneys to the urinary bladder through the ureters in a one-way direction, aided by a valve-like mechanism at the junction of the ureters and bladder called the ureterovesical junction (UVJ). This valve mechanism prevents the backward flow of urine.

In individuals with vesicoureteral reflux, the valve mechanism at the UVJ is either absent or defective, allowing urine to reflux or flow back into the ureters during bladder contraction. In more severe cases, the urine may reach the kidneys, leading to potential complications such as kidney infections and kidney damage.

Epidemiology

The epidemiology of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) can vary depending on several factors, including geographic location, age group, and gender. Here are some key points regarding the epidemiology of VUR:

Prevalence:

VUR is a relatively common condition, especially among children. The prevalence of VUR varies widely across different studies and populations. Estimates suggest that VUR affects approximately 1-2% of children in the general population.

Age Distribution:

VUR is most commonly diagnosed in infancy and childhood. It is often identified during evaluating urinary tract infections (UTIs) in this age group. VUR can also be detected prenatally during routine prenatal ultrasound examinations. However, VUR can persist into adulthood in some cases.

Gender Distribution:

VUR is more frequently diagnosed in females during infancy and early childhood. This gender difference is due to anatomical factors, such as a shorter urethra in females, that may increase the risk of UTIs and subsequent VUR. However, as children grow older, the gender distribution becomes more equal.

Familial Occurrence:

VUR has a genetic component and evidence of familial clustering. It is estimated that around 30-50% of children with VUR have a positive family history, suggesting a hereditary predisposition.

Association with Other Conditions:

VUR can be associated with other urinary tract abnormalities, such as ureteral duplication, bladder dysfunction, or neurogenic bladder. It is also more commonly found in individuals with specific syndromes, such as Down syndrome and posterior urethral valves in males.

Ethnic Differences:

Some studies have suggested that there may be ethnic differences in the prevalence of VUR. For example, VUR appears more common in individuals of Hispanic descent than other ethnic groups.

Anatomy

Pathophysiology

The pathophysiology of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) involves malfunctioning the valve mechanism at the ureterovesical junction (UVJ), which allows urine to flow back from the bladder into the ureters and potentially reach the kidneys. This urine reflux can lead to complications, including urinary tract infections (UTIs) and kidney damage.

The primary cause of VUR is an abnormality in the development of the ureterovesical junction, which usually acts as a one-way valve preventing urine from flowing back into the ureters. In individuals with VUR, the valve mechanism is either absent or incompetent, allowing urine to reflux during bladder contraction. This can occur due to structural defects in the valve tissue or a failure of the surrounding musculature to provide adequate support.

Etiology

Genetics

Prognostic Factors

Severity of Reflux: The severity of VUR is often classified into different grades, ranging from Grade I (mildest) to Grade V (most severe). Higher grades of reflux, where urine travels up to the kidneys, are associated with an increased risk of kidney damage and long-term complications.

Age at Diagnosis: The age at which VUR is diagnosed can be an important prognostic factor. Children diagnosed earlier, particularly during infancy, may have a higher chance of resolving the reflux naturally as they grow. On the other hand, VUR detected in older children or adults may be less likely to resolve spontaneously and require more aggressive treatment.

Renal Function: The degree of kidney damage or impairment is a crucial prognostic factor in VUR. If VUR leads to recurrent urinary tract infections or kidney infections, it can potentially cause scarring and impair kidney function. The extent of kidney damage, as assessed by imaging studies and tests measuring renal function, can help determine the prognosis and guide treatment decisions.

UTI Frequency and Severity: The frequency and severity of urinary tract infections (UTIs) associated with VUR can impact the prognosis. Repeated or severe UTIs can lead to kidney damage and increase the risk of long-term complications. Therefore, the number of UTIs and their impact on renal health are important prognostic factors.

Compliance with Treatment: Adherence to treatment recommendations is a significant prognostic factor in VUR. Following the prescribed treatment plan, such as taking medications regularly or undergoing surgical interventions as recommended, can greatly influence the outcomes. Non-compliance with treatment can increase the risk of recurrent infections and complications.

Underlying Conditions: The presence of underlying conditions, such as neurogenic bladder or congenital abnormalities, can affect the prognosis of VUR. These conditions may complicate management and require additional interventions or ongoing monitoring.

Clinical History

Age Group:

Infants

Children

Adolescents

Adults

Associated Comorbidity or Activity:

Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) can be associated with specific comorbidities or activities that may impact its presentation or clinical history:

Comorbidities:

Neurogenic Bladder: VUR can be associated with neurogenic bladder, a condition characterized by bladder dysfunction due to neurological disorders or spinal cord injuries. Neurogenic bladder can disrupt normal bladder function and increase the risk of VUR.

Congenital Anomalies: VUR may be associated with other congenital anomalies of the urinary tract, such as ureteral duplication, ureterocele, or bladder outlet obstruction. These abnormalities can contribute to the development or persistence of VUR.

Renal Anomalies: Some individuals with VUR may have underlying renal anomalies, such as renal dysplasia or hypoplasia. These structural abnormalities can affect renal function and increase the risk of complications.

Activities:

Voiding Dysfunction: Conditions that affect standard voiding patterns or lead to incomplete bladder emptying, such as bladder dysfunction or pelvic floor disorders, can contribute to VUR development or exacerbation.

High-Impact Activities: In rare cases, intense physical activities or trauma to the abdomen or pelvic region can result in VUR. Examples include sports-related injuries or accidents that involve a direct blow to the abdomen.

Pregnancy: Pregnancy can temporarily increase the risk of urinary tract infections, which can worsen VUR symptoms or complications during that period.

Acuity of Presentation:

The acuity of presentation in vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) refers to the speed at which symptoms or complications develop and become evident. The acuity can vary depending on several factors, including the reflux’s severity, the underlying conditions’ presence, and the occurrence of urinary tract infections (UTIs). Here are some scenarios that reflect different levels of acuity in VUR:

Acute Presentation: In some cases, VUR may present acutely with a sudden and severe episode of pyelonephritis, a kidney infection. This can occur if infected urine refluxes up to the kidneys, causing significant inflammation and infection. Acute presentation may include high fever, chills, severe flank pain, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and other signs of systemic illness.

Subacute Presentation: VUR may present subacutely when recurrent UTIs occur over some time. These UTIs can be symptomatic, causing discomfort and frequent urination, or they may be asymptomatic and detected through routine urine testing.

Chronic Presentation: In some cases, VUR can present more chronically, with milder or intermittent symptoms. This can include recurrent or occasional urinary tract infections, lower urinary tract symptoms (such as urgency, frequency, or incontinence), or non-specific complaints like abdominal discomfort.

Physical Examination

During a physical examination for vesicoureteral reflux (VUR), a healthcare professional will assess various aspects of the urinary system and overall health. While the specific examination may vary depending on the age group and individual circumstances, here are some components that may be included:

General Examination

Abdominal Examination

Genitourinary Examination

Kidney Palpation

Neurological Assessment

Urinalysis

Age group

Associated comorbidity

Associated activity

Acuity of presentation

Differential Diagnoses

Urinary tract infection
Bladder Outlet Obstruction
Neurogenic bladder
Primary megaureter
Ureterocele
Structural abnormalities

Laboratory Studies

Imaging Studies

Procedures

Histologic Findings

Staging

Treatment Paradigm

The treatment for vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) depends on several factors, including the severity of reflux, associated symptoms or complications, age of the patient, and individual preferences.

The main treatment options for VUR include:

Observation and Monitoring

Antibiotic Prophylaxis

Surgical intervention

Management of associated conditions

by Stage

by Modality

Chemotherapy

Radiation Therapy

Surgical Interventions

Hormone Therapy

Immunotherapy

Hyperthermia

Photodynamic Therapy

Stem Cell Transplant

Targeted Therapy

Palliative Care

modification-of-environment

Hygiene Practices: Emphasizing good hygiene practices can help reduce the risk of UTIs. This includes teaching proper toilet hygiene, such as wiping front to back, especially in girls, to prevent the introduction of bacteria from the anal area to the urethra.

Adequate Fluid Intake: Encouraging an adequate intake of fluids, especially water, can help promote urinary tract health and reduce the concentration of bacteria in the urine. Sufficient hydration supports the flushing out of bacteria from the urinary system.

Avoiding Urinary Retention: Encouraging regular and complete bladder emptying can minimize the risk of UTIs. Patients should be advised to avoid holding urine for prolonged periods and to empty the bladder during each voiding.

Timely Voiding: Establishing a regular voiding schedule can be helpful, particularly for children prone to holding their urine. Timely voiding ensures that the bladder is emptied regularly, reducing the risk of bacterial buildup.

Avoiding Irritants: It may be advisable to avoid certain irritants that can potentially worsen urinary symptoms or trigger UTIs. Examples include strong soaps, bubble baths, and certain feminine hygiene products increase the risk of infection.

Probiotics: Some studies suggest that probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria, may help promote a healthy urinary tract by inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria. Probiotic supplements or foods containing natural probiotics can be considered, but it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any supplementation.

The administration of pharmaceutical agents is an important treatment paradigm for vesicoureteral reflux (VUR). There are two primary pharmaceutical options commonly used in the management of VUR:

Antibiotic prophylaxis

Antibiotic treatment of UTIs

In managing vesicoureteral reflux (VUR), different phases of treatment may be followed based on the individual’s condition and response to initial interventions.

These phases can include:

Diagnostic phase

Acute management

Conservative management

Surgical intervention

Follow-up

Maintenance phase

Medication

Media Gallary

References

Vesicoureteral Reflux

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK563262/

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Vesicoureteral Reflux

Updated : July 23, 2024

Mail Whatsapp PDF Image



Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is characterized by abnormal urine flow from the back of the bladder into the ureters and potentially into the kidneys. Urine travels from the kidneys to the urinary bladder through the ureters in a one-way direction, aided by a valve-like mechanism at the junction of the ureters and bladder called the ureterovesical junction (UVJ). This valve mechanism prevents the backward flow of urine.

In individuals with vesicoureteral reflux, the valve mechanism at the UVJ is either absent or defective, allowing urine to reflux or flow back into the ureters during bladder contraction. In more severe cases, the urine may reach the kidneys, leading to potential complications such as kidney infections and kidney damage.

The epidemiology of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) can vary depending on several factors, including geographic location, age group, and gender. Here are some key points regarding the epidemiology of VUR:

Prevalence:

VUR is a relatively common condition, especially among children. The prevalence of VUR varies widely across different studies and populations. Estimates suggest that VUR affects approximately 1-2% of children in the general population.

Age Distribution:

VUR is most commonly diagnosed in infancy and childhood. It is often identified during evaluating urinary tract infections (UTIs) in this age group. VUR can also be detected prenatally during routine prenatal ultrasound examinations. However, VUR can persist into adulthood in some cases.

Gender Distribution:

VUR is more frequently diagnosed in females during infancy and early childhood. This gender difference is due to anatomical factors, such as a shorter urethra in females, that may increase the risk of UTIs and subsequent VUR. However, as children grow older, the gender distribution becomes more equal.

Familial Occurrence:

VUR has a genetic component and evidence of familial clustering. It is estimated that around 30-50% of children with VUR have a positive family history, suggesting a hereditary predisposition.

Association with Other Conditions:

VUR can be associated with other urinary tract abnormalities, such as ureteral duplication, bladder dysfunction, or neurogenic bladder. It is also more commonly found in individuals with specific syndromes, such as Down syndrome and posterior urethral valves in males.

Ethnic Differences:

Some studies have suggested that there may be ethnic differences in the prevalence of VUR. For example, VUR appears more common in individuals of Hispanic descent than other ethnic groups.

The pathophysiology of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) involves malfunctioning the valve mechanism at the ureterovesical junction (UVJ), which allows urine to flow back from the bladder into the ureters and potentially reach the kidneys. This urine reflux can lead to complications, including urinary tract infections (UTIs) and kidney damage.

The primary cause of VUR is an abnormality in the development of the ureterovesical junction, which usually acts as a one-way valve preventing urine from flowing back into the ureters. In individuals with VUR, the valve mechanism is either absent or incompetent, allowing urine to reflux during bladder contraction. This can occur due to structural defects in the valve tissue or a failure of the surrounding musculature to provide adequate support.

Severity of Reflux: The severity of VUR is often classified into different grades, ranging from Grade I (mildest) to Grade V (most severe). Higher grades of reflux, where urine travels up to the kidneys, are associated with an increased risk of kidney damage and long-term complications.

Age at Diagnosis: The age at which VUR is diagnosed can be an important prognostic factor. Children diagnosed earlier, particularly during infancy, may have a higher chance of resolving the reflux naturally as they grow. On the other hand, VUR detected in older children or adults may be less likely to resolve spontaneously and require more aggressive treatment.

Renal Function: The degree of kidney damage or impairment is a crucial prognostic factor in VUR. If VUR leads to recurrent urinary tract infections or kidney infections, it can potentially cause scarring and impair kidney function. The extent of kidney damage, as assessed by imaging studies and tests measuring renal function, can help determine the prognosis and guide treatment decisions.

UTI Frequency and Severity: The frequency and severity of urinary tract infections (UTIs) associated with VUR can impact the prognosis. Repeated or severe UTIs can lead to kidney damage and increase the risk of long-term complications. Therefore, the number of UTIs and their impact on renal health are important prognostic factors.

Compliance with Treatment: Adherence to treatment recommendations is a significant prognostic factor in VUR. Following the prescribed treatment plan, such as taking medications regularly or undergoing surgical interventions as recommended, can greatly influence the outcomes. Non-compliance with treatment can increase the risk of recurrent infections and complications.

Underlying Conditions: The presence of underlying conditions, such as neurogenic bladder or congenital abnormalities, can affect the prognosis of VUR. These conditions may complicate management and require additional interventions or ongoing monitoring.

Age Group:

Infants

Children

Adolescents

Adults

Associated Comorbidity or Activity:

Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) can be associated with specific comorbidities or activities that may impact its presentation or clinical history:

Comorbidities:

Neurogenic Bladder: VUR can be associated with neurogenic bladder, a condition characterized by bladder dysfunction due to neurological disorders or spinal cord injuries. Neurogenic bladder can disrupt normal bladder function and increase the risk of VUR.

Congenital Anomalies: VUR may be associated with other congenital anomalies of the urinary tract, such as ureteral duplication, ureterocele, or bladder outlet obstruction. These abnormalities can contribute to the development or persistence of VUR.

Renal Anomalies: Some individuals with VUR may have underlying renal anomalies, such as renal dysplasia or hypoplasia. These structural abnormalities can affect renal function and increase the risk of complications.

Activities:

Voiding Dysfunction: Conditions that affect standard voiding patterns or lead to incomplete bladder emptying, such as bladder dysfunction or pelvic floor disorders, can contribute to VUR development or exacerbation.

High-Impact Activities: In rare cases, intense physical activities or trauma to the abdomen or pelvic region can result in VUR. Examples include sports-related injuries or accidents that involve a direct blow to the abdomen.

Pregnancy: Pregnancy can temporarily increase the risk of urinary tract infections, which can worsen VUR symptoms or complications during that period.

Acuity of Presentation:

The acuity of presentation in vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) refers to the speed at which symptoms or complications develop and become evident. The acuity can vary depending on several factors, including the reflux’s severity, the underlying conditions’ presence, and the occurrence of urinary tract infections (UTIs). Here are some scenarios that reflect different levels of acuity in VUR:

Acute Presentation: In some cases, VUR may present acutely with a sudden and severe episode of pyelonephritis, a kidney infection. This can occur if infected urine refluxes up to the kidneys, causing significant inflammation and infection. Acute presentation may include high fever, chills, severe flank pain, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and other signs of systemic illness.

Subacute Presentation: VUR may present subacutely when recurrent UTIs occur over some time. These UTIs can be symptomatic, causing discomfort and frequent urination, or they may be asymptomatic and detected through routine urine testing.

Chronic Presentation: In some cases, VUR can present more chronically, with milder or intermittent symptoms. This can include recurrent or occasional urinary tract infections, lower urinary tract symptoms (such as urgency, frequency, or incontinence), or non-specific complaints like abdominal discomfort.

During a physical examination for vesicoureteral reflux (VUR), a healthcare professional will assess various aspects of the urinary system and overall health. While the specific examination may vary depending on the age group and individual circumstances, here are some components that may be included:

General Examination

Abdominal Examination

Genitourinary Examination

Kidney Palpation

Neurological Assessment

Urinalysis

Urinary tract infection
Bladder Outlet Obstruction
Neurogenic bladder
Primary megaureter
Ureterocele
Structural abnormalities

The treatment for vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) depends on several factors, including the severity of reflux, associated symptoms or complications, age of the patient, and individual preferences.

The main treatment options for VUR include:

Observation and Monitoring

Antibiotic Prophylaxis

Surgical intervention

Management of associated conditions

Urology

Hygiene Practices: Emphasizing good hygiene practices can help reduce the risk of UTIs. This includes teaching proper toilet hygiene, such as wiping front to back, especially in girls, to prevent the introduction of bacteria from the anal area to the urethra.

Adequate Fluid Intake: Encouraging an adequate intake of fluids, especially water, can help promote urinary tract health and reduce the concentration of bacteria in the urine. Sufficient hydration supports the flushing out of bacteria from the urinary system.

Avoiding Urinary Retention: Encouraging regular and complete bladder emptying can minimize the risk of UTIs. Patients should be advised to avoid holding urine for prolonged periods and to empty the bladder during each voiding.

Timely Voiding: Establishing a regular voiding schedule can be helpful, particularly for children prone to holding their urine. Timely voiding ensures that the bladder is emptied regularly, reducing the risk of bacterial buildup.

Avoiding Irritants: It may be advisable to avoid certain irritants that can potentially worsen urinary symptoms or trigger UTIs. Examples include strong soaps, bubble baths, and certain feminine hygiene products increase the risk of infection.

Probiotics: Some studies suggest that probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria, may help promote a healthy urinary tract by inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria. Probiotic supplements or foods containing natural probiotics can be considered, but it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any supplementation.

Vesicoureteral Reflux

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK563262/

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