Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 3, 2026

Assessing Urinary Tract Junction Obstruction Defects by Methylene Blue Dye Injection
Published on: October 12, 2017
Intermittent ureterovesical junction obstruction in children
Luis Botelho1, Jose A Rincon, Hiep T Nguyen
1Department of Urology, Children's Hospital Boston, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
Insights
Intermittent ureterovesical junction obstruction, a previously undescribed condition, presents with flank pain and nausea. This case highlights the importance of recognizing this rare cause of hydroureteronephrosis.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Nephrology
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Intermittent ureteropelvic junction obstruction is a known clinical entity.
- Obstruction at the ureterovesical junction typically presents as a constant blockage.
Observation:
- A case of intermittent ureterovesical junction obstruction was identified.
- The condition presented with recurrent flank and abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.
Findings:
- Ultrasonography revealed intermittent hydroureteronephrosis.
- The intermittent nature of the obstruction was a key diagnostic feature.
Implications:
- This case expands the understanding of ureterovesical junction obstruction.
- Recognizing this intermittent form is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management of related symptoms.
Abstract:
While intermittent ureteropelvic junction obstruction is well recognized clinically, intermittent obstruction at the ureterovesical junction has not been previously described. We herein present a case report of intermittent ureterovesical junction obstruction, characterized by intermittent hydroureteronephrosis on ultrasonography and symptoms of flank/abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting.
Related Concept Videos
Urinary Tract Calculi II: Pathophysiology and Clinical Manifestations
Ureters
The Micturition Reflex
The process begins with bladder filling, where the bladder wall stretches as urine accumulates. This stretching activates the urine storage reflex, mediated by the sacral spinal segments and the pontine storage center. Efferent sympathetic impulses stimulate the detrusor muscle to relax and the internal urethral sphincter to contract, facilitating urine...
Imaging Studies V: Intravenous Urography and Retrograde Pyelography
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...
Urinary Tract Calculi III: Medical Management

