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Lifespan's A - Z Health Information Library |
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  Vesicoureteral reflux Ureters (tunnels) carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder through the bladder wall. At the end of the tunnel, a flap-like valve prevents urine from backing-up into the ureters and kidneys. In some children, the valves may be abnormal or the ureters in the bladder may not travel deep enough into the bladder wall, which can cause vesicoureteral reflux. Vesicoureteral reflux is a condition that allows urine to flow back up into the ureters and kidneys, causing repeated urinary tract infections. The reflux of urine exposes the ureters and kidney to infection from bacteria and high-pressure generated by the bladder during urination. If left untreated, urinary infections can cause kidney damage, renal scarring (potentially stunting kidney growth), and high blood pressure later in life. Vesicoureteral reflux is treated with antibiotics, or, in severe cases, with surgery. 
Review Date:
4/21/2006 Reviewed By: A.D.A.M. Medical Illustration Team. Previously reviewed by Daniel Levy, M.D., Ph.D., Infectious Diseases, Greater Baltimore Medical Center, Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network (4/14/2004). The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997-
A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.  |
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