[Neonatal urinary ascites. Considerations on its diagnosis and treatment]

Seven cases with neonatal urinary ascites are described. In all of the cases the underlying cause was an anatomical or functional obstructive uropathy of the lower urinary tract, the most common pathology being neurogenic bladder secondary to lumbosacral dysphagia. The techniques utilized for patient evaluation (ultrasound, serial micturition cystourethrography and IVP) are described and the findings afforded by each diagnostic technique are presented. The value of serial micturition cystourethrography is underscored. In our view, it is convenient to perform initial diversion by percutaneous nephrostomy, suprapubic punction or placement of a urethral catheter, according to the level of the etiologic process. The definitive surgical approach will depend on the results of subsequent radiologic controls and the existing uropathy.