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Deflux Calcification Leading to Delayed Obstruction and Loss of Renal Function: A Case Report
Hannah Pham1, Jason Au2, Eric Jones2
1Department of Urology, Houston Methodist Hospital, 6560 Fannin St Suite 2100, Houston, TX 77030, United States.
Insights
Dextranomer/hyaluronic acid (Deflux) can cause rare late complications like ureteral obstruction and kidney damage years after pediatric vesicoureteral reflux treatment. This case highlights a severe, asymptomatic instance of renal function loss.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Urology
- Biomaterials Science
- Medical Device Complications
Background:
- Dextranomer/hyaluronic acid (Deflux) is a common treatment for pediatric vesicoureteral reflux (VUR).
- It shows good early efficacy and low morbidity.
- While early Deflux complications are known, late complications are less understood.
Observation:
- An 11-year-old female presented with severe, asymptomatic hydroureteronephrosis.
- This condition was identified nearly 8 years after Deflux treatment for VUR.
- The patient had no apparent risk factors for complications.
Findings:
- The case details a rare instance of significant ipsilateral hydroureteronephrosis.
- Severe loss of renal function was observed long after Deflux administration.
- No clear predisposing factors were identified in this patient.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential for delayed, severe complications following Deflux treatment.
- It suggests the need for long-term monitoring of patients treated with Deflux for VUR.
- Further research is warranted to understand the mechanisms and risk factors for late Deflux-related complications.
Abstract:
Dextranomer/hyaluronic acid (Deflux) has been widely used in the treatment of vesicoureteral reflux in the pediatric population. It has demonstrated acceptable early efficacy with minimal morbidity. Early complications from Deflux have been reported to occur in approximately 1% of cases. However, late complications from Deflux use, including calcification and delayed ureteral obstruction, are less well understood. We present the case of an asymptomatic 11 year old girl with severe ipsilateral hydroureteronephrosis, identified nearly 8 years after treatment. This case details a rare instance of loss of renal function after Deflux use in a patient with no apparent risk factors.
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