Alternate Names : Hydronephrosis – bilateral
Definition
Bilateral hydronephrosis is the enlargement (distention) of the urine collecting structures and pelvis of both kidneys. Bilateral means both sides.
See also: Unilateral hydronephrosis
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Bilateral hydronephrosis occurs when urine is unable to drain from the kidney down the ureters into the bladder. Hydronephrosis is not itself a disease, but rather a physical result of whatever disease is keeping urine from draining out of the kidneys, ureters, and bladder.
Disorders associated with bilateral hydronephrosis include:
- Acute bilateral obstructive uropathy
- Bladder outlet obstruction
- Chronic bilateral obstructive uropathy
- Neurogenic bladder
- Posterior ureteral valves
- Prune belly syndrome
- Uteropelvic junction obstruction
- Vesicoureteric reflux
Pictures & Images
Female urinary tract
The female and male urinary tracts are relatively the same except for the length of the urethra.
Male urinary tract
The male and female urinary tracts are relatively the same except for the length of the urethra.
-
Bilateral hydronephrosis : Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
-
Bilateral hydronephrosis : Symptoms & Signs, Diagnosis & Tests
-
Bilateral hydronephrosis : Treatment
Review Date : 3/22/2010
Reviewed By : Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine; Scott Miller, MD, Urologist in private practice in Atlanta, Georgia. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
