Overview
Posterior urethral valves can affect the bladder and kidneys. Early diagnosis and treatment help protect kidney function.
Signs
- Swollen kidneys seen on a pregnancy scan
- A weak urine stream
- Urinary tract infections
- Poor weight gain
- Difficulty passing urine
Causes and risk factors
The valves form during development before birth. The cause is unknown.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis uses ultrasound and a special X-ray of the bladder (voiding cystourethrogram).
Treatment
Treatment is a procedure to remove the valves through a small camera. Children need long-term follow-up of their kidneys and bladder.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if a baby boy has a weak urine stream, urinary infections or poor weight gain.
This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.
