Chronic Unilateral Obstructive Uropathy
Alternate Names : Obstructive Uropathy - Unilateral - Chronic, Ureteral Obstruction - Chronic
Definition
Urine is drained from the kidneys through tubes called ureters. Obstructive uropathy occurs when a one or both ureters becomes blocked; the condition may be acute or chronic.
Chronic unilateral obstructive uropathy involves a slow, progressive blockage of one ureter, resulting in a backup of urine and injury to the kidney.
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Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Unilateral obstructive uropathy occurs when urine cannot drain through a ureter because of an obstruction, often ureteral or kidney stones. Urine backs up into the kidney and causes distention of the renal pelvis and calyces (hydronephrosis).
Risks for unilateral obstructive uropathy include ureteral stones and tumors, kidney stones, and tumors in surrounding structures such as the uterine cervix.
The disorder damages structures of the urinary tract. It may result in permanent damage to the kidney and may be a cause of hypertension. It usually does not cause kidney failure because the second kidney continues to function.
Chronic unilateral obstructive uropathy occurs in approximately 5 out of every 1,000 people.
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