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Pediatric Hypertension: A Case Report of an Unusual Presentation
Marta Baldo1, Francisca Andrade1, Ana Macedo1
1Family Medicine, Unidade de Saúde Familiar (USF) Novo Sentido, Unidade Local de Saúde (ULS) São João, Porto, PRT.
Insights
Pediatric hypertension can indicate silent kidney issues like ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO). Early detection through routine screening is crucial for timely intervention and better outcomes in children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Nephrology
- Pediatric Urology
- Clinical Case Reports
Background:
- Pediatric hypertension is frequently asymptomatic, potentially masking underlying secondary causes.
- Ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) is a primary cause of pediatric upper urinary tract dilation.
- UPJO commonly presents with pain, hematuria, or UTIs, but can rarely manifest solely as hypertension.
Abstract:
Pediatric hypertension is often asymptomatic but can signal underlying secondary causes such as renal or renovascular diseases. Ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) is a leading cause of upper urinary tract dilation in children. Although it typically presents with abdominal pain, hematuria, or urinary tract infections, it may, in rare cases, manifest solely as hypertension. This case report describes an eight-year-old boy with asymptomatic hypertension and proteinuria detected during routine screening. Imaging revealed a left-sided UPJO with renal impairment, as well as horseshoe kidneys with fusion at the lower poles. The patient was treated with antihypertensives and underwent successful surgical correction, with ongoing nephrology follow-up. This case underscores the importance of routine blood pressure monitoring in children to enable early diagnosis of silent renal pathologies, facilitating timely treatment and improved outcomes.
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