A new perspective on the natural history of vesicoureteric reflux

B T Steele1, J De Maria

  • 1Department of Pediatric Nephrology, McMaster University Medical Centre, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.

Pediatrics
|July 1, 1992
PubMed

Insights

Vesicoureteric reflux (VUR) is often seen in girls post-urinary tract infection. However, neonates with prenatal sonogram abnormalities show a male predominance, with 80% being boys.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Urology
  • Neonatal Medicine
  • Renal Medicine

Background:

  • Vesicoureteric reflux (VUR) is a common condition in children.
  • Traditionally recognized in girls following urinary tract infections (UTIs).
  • Emerging data highlights VUR detection in neonates via prenatal sonography.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To analyze the demographic and etiological differences in VUR presentation.
  • To investigate the sex distribution of VUR in neonates detected prenatally.
  • To differentiate congenital versus acquired VUR in pediatric populations.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of pediatric VUR cases.
  • Comparison of VUR incidence based on age at diagnosis and sex.
  • Correlation of prenatal sonogram findings with VUR diagnosis.

Main Results:

  • VUR is frequently diagnosed in girls after UTIs.
  • Neonatal VUR, identified through prenatal ultrasounds, exhibits a strong male predominance (80% boys).
  • Congenital VUR is more prevalent in boys, while acquired VUR is more common in girls with voiding dysfunction.

Conclusions:

  • Vesicoureteric reflux presentation varies significantly by age and sex.
  • Prenatal sonographic detection of VUR in neonates indicates a male predilection.
  • Understanding these differences is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management of pediatric VUR.

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