Vesicoureteral reflux, proteinuria and renal failure

We report 3 cases of proteinuria, progressive renal insufficiency and vesicoureteral reflux with no history of urinary tract infection. Renal histology showed focal segmental glomerulosclerosis. These associations are unusual during childhood but they are common in adults. Generally, vesicoureteral reflux is discovered during radiological evaluation of children with recurrent urinary tract infections. Renal parenchymal damage in children typically results from recurrent infection or progressive hydronephrosis. Development of proteinuria with vesicoureteral reflux usually indicates an irreversible glomerular lesion. Antireflux surgery in patients with vesicoureteral reflux and decreased renal function may be beneficial if performed before the onset of proteinuria. We recommend antireflux surgery for children with persistent vesicoureteral reflux or decreased renal function.