Reflux nephropathy in adults

Reflux nephropathy (RN), the main complication of the vesico-ureteral reflux (VUR), relatively frequent in adults, is often the consequence of recurrent urinary infections in the child, hood or during pregnancy. Unilateral RN has generally a benign course but the bilateral one, with important nephron destruction, leads to focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis, manifested by high levels of proteinuria. A certain degree of cicatrization and renal failure are followed by progressive impairment of the remaining renal function, even if VUR is cured. An early diagnosis, treatment of the acute bacterial infection, adequate ingestion of liquids, regulation of the intestinal transit and complete bladder voiding by miction, associated with hypotensive and antiinfectious drug therapy lead to VUR disappearance in 80% of the cases, avoiding renal failure. Surgery is indicated only in the patients with severe reflux and with congenital or obstructive anomalies, as well as in the case of recurrent infection resistant to antibiotherapy.