Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 25, 2026

A Murine Model of Irreversible and Reversible Unilateral Ureteric Obstruction
Published on: December 20, 2014
Obstructive uropathy: an important cause of chronic renal failure in children
Karl S Roth1, Harry P Koo, Stephanie E Spottswood
1Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Virginia Campus, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond 23229, USA.
Insights
Obstructive uropathy is a major cause of chronic kidney failure, particularly in children, necessitating early diagnosis and treatment to prevent severe outcomes and reduce healthcare costs.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Urology
- Pediatric Nephrology
Background:
- Chronic renal failure (CRF) presents a significant healthcare burden.
- CRF results from diverse pathologies, often progressing silently.
- Obstructive uropathy is a leading cause of kidney failure, especially in pediatric populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the pathophysiology of obstructive uropathy.
- To establish a basis for differential diagnosis of obstructive uropathy.
- To emphasize the importance of early and definitive treatment for obstructive uropathy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on obstructive uropathy pathophysiology.
- Analysis of obstructive uropathy's role in renal failure.
- Discussion of diagnostic approaches for obstructive uropathy.
Main Results:
- Obstructive uropathy accounted for 16.5% of pediatric renal transplants in 1997.
- Understanding pathophysiology aids in differential diagnosis.
- Early intervention is crucial for managing obstructive uropathy.
Conclusions:
- Obstructive uropathy is a critical factor in renal failure development.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment of obstructive uropathy are imperative.
- Effective management can mitigate the impact of kidney failure.
Abstract:
Care of individuals with renal failure continues to impose a tremendous burden on our national health care budget. Chronic renal failure is the final common denominator of a multiplicity of pathologic processes, some of which progress silently over years. Of these, obstructive uropathy is a prominent cause of kidney failure, accounting for 16.5% of all pediatric renal transplants in 1997. The pathophysiology of obstructive uropathy is reviewed as the basis for a differential diagnosis. In view of the significant role played by obstructive uropathy in the development of renal failure, early and definitive treatment of this clinical entity is imperative.
Related Concept Videos
Nephrons
Renal Corpuscle
Glomerulus: Structure and Function
The glomerulus is a tiny, intricate network of capillaries located at the beginning of the nephron. It's enveloped by the Bowman's capsule and receives its blood supply from an afferent arteriole, which divides into numerous capillaries...
Disorders of the Urinary System
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common urinary system disorders. They are caused by bacteria that enter the urethra and can spread to the bladder resulting in cystitis. Pyelonephritis is the result of a UTI that has ascended to the level of the...
Factors Affecting Renal Clearance: Renal Impairment
One condition associated with renal failure is uremia. Uremia is characterized by impaired glomerular filtration and fluid accumulation in the body. This condition hinders the renal clearance of drugs, resulting in drug accumulation and potential...
Acute Kidney Injury II: Pathophysiology
Chronic Kidney Disease I: Introduction

