Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 16, 2026

Author Spotlight: Demonstrating Therapeutic Effect of Automated Zhuang Medicine Line Moxibustion Simulator
Published on: January 19, 2024
Therapy insight: What nephrologists need to know about primary vesicoureteral reflux
Patricio C Gargollo1, David A Diamond
1Harvard Medical School, and Children's Hospital Boston, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
Insights
Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is a condition where urine flows backward into the kidneys. Understanding its link to lower urinary tract dysfunction improves diagnosis and management.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Nephrology
- Urology
Background:
- Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) involves abnormal backward urine flow from the bladder to the kidneys.
- It affects 1% of healthy children and a higher percentage of those with urinary tract infections or prenatal hydronephrosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the pathogenesis, diagnosis, management, and clinical presentation of VUR.
- To discuss current controversies and the understanding of VUR as part of dysfunctional elimination syndrome.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of VUR diagnosis and treatment over the past 50 years.
- Synthesis of current knowledge on VUR pathogenesis and clinical management.
Main Results:
- Significant advancements in VUR diagnosis and treatment have occurred.
- VUR is increasingly recognized as a component of generalized lower urinary tract dysfunction.
Conclusions:
- Improved understanding of VUR's relationship with dysfunctional elimination syndrome enhances management strategies.
- Ongoing research and discussion address current controversies in VUR care.
Abstract:
Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is the abnormal, retrograde flow of urine from the bladder to the upper urinary tract. This disease affects about 1% of otherwise normal children, 30-50% of those who present with urinary tract infections, and approximately 10% with prenatally diagnosed hydronephrosis. Over the past 50 years, tremendous progress has been made in the diagnosis, treatment and management of VUR. The realization that VUR is probably a component of generalized dysfunction of the lower urinary tract (i.e. dysfunctional elimination syndrome) has further enhanced understanding of the disease. This Review covers basic pathogenesis, diagnosis, management, clinical presentation, and current controversies surrounding VUR.
Related Concept Videos
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease I: Meaning and Pathophysiology
Gene Therapy
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease II: Clinical Features and Management
Clinical Manifestations
GERD presents itself in a multitude of ways, with symptoms varying from person to person. The hallmark symptoms are...
Group Therapy
Behavior Therapy
Exposure therapy is a cornerstone of behavioral treatment for anxiety disorders. It involves systematic exposure to feared stimuli, either in real...
Drug Therapy
Antianxiety Medications

