Overview
Reflux nephropathy can cause scarring of the kidneys and high blood pressure. Early treatment of reflux and urinary infections helps protect the kidneys.
Symptoms
- Repeated urinary tract infections in childhood
- High blood pressure
- Protein in the urine
- Reduced kidney function in later life
- Often no symptoms
Causes and risk factors
It is caused by vesicoureteral reflux, often present from birth, combined with urinary infections. It can run in families.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis uses ultrasound, a voiding cystourethrogram and a DMSA kidney scan.
Treatment
Treatment includes preventing and treating urinary infections, controlling blood pressure and, in some cases, surgery to correct reflux.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if a child has repeated urinary infections or fever with urinary symptoms.
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.
