Obstructive Uropathy

Alternate Names : Post-Renal Nephropathy

How is the condition diagnosed?

The history, a physical exam, and lab tests help in diagnosing the condition. X-rays may be taken to look for kidney stones.

Ultrasound may show swelling of the kidneys and enlargement of the renal collection system, called hydronephrosis. Or if the obstruction is lower, it may show enlargement of the ureters, called hydroureter.

If the ultrasound does not show an obstruction, an intravenous pyelogram may be done. This test shows how the urine flows throughout the urinary tract. A contrast agent is injected into a blood vessel and is quickly excreted into the urine. Multiple x-rays are taken to show the flow of urine from the kidneys to the bladder. An obstruction shows up as a blockage of this flow. Retrograde pyelograms are similar. They show the flow of urine from the kidney to the urethra.