Vesicoureteral reflux

Vesicoureteral reflux is the backward flow of urine from the bladder into one or both ureters, sometimes reaching the kidneys. It can increase the risk of urinary tract infections and kidney damage.

Ureterovesical junction: The junction where a ureter enters the bladder, including the passage that helps prevent urine from flowing backward. Its valve-like anatomy is central to whether urine can reflux into the ureter.
Urine culture: A laboratory test that grows and identifies microorganisms in a urine sample. Cultures help confirm urinary infections that may accompany reflux.
Febrile urinary tract infection: A urinary tract infection accompanied by fever, often indicating infection involving the kidneys. Reflux can facilitate bacteria traveling from the bladder toward the kidneys.
Secondary vesicoureteral reflux: Vesicoureteral reflux resulting from elevated bladder pressure or an underlying urinary tract disorder. Unlike primary reflux, this form follows another problem that disrupts normal urine flow.
Spontaneous resolution of vesicoureteral reflux: The disappearance of vesicoureteral reflux over time without a corrective procedure. Many childhood cases improve as the bladder–ureter junction matures, influencing whether intervention can wait.
Intravesical ureter: The segment of a ureter that passes through the bladder wall before opening into the bladder. A short or poorly supported segment can weaken the junction’s resistance to backflow.
Renal ultrasonography: An imaging examination that uses sound waves to assess the kidneys and urinary tract. It checks for kidney abnormalities and dilation without exposing patients to ionizing radiation.
Acute pyelonephritis: A sudden bacterial infection of the kidney and its collecting system. It is a serious upper-tract infection associated with reflux in some patients.
Posterior urethral valves: Congenital obstructing folds in the male urethra that impede urine flow from the bladder. The obstruction can raise bladder pressure and cause secondary reflux.
RIVUR trial: A randomized clinical trial comparing continuous antibiotic prophylaxis with placebo in children with vesicoureteral reflux after urinary infection. Its findings inform debates about infection prevention and antibiotic resistance.

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UreterRelated: It reverses the usual direction of urine movement through the ureter.