Health Encyclopedia

Chronic bilateral obstructive uropathy

Definition

Chronic bilateral obstructive uropathy is a long-term blockage of urine flow from both kidneys. It is a slow blockage that gets worse over time.

Bilateral means "both sides."

Alternative Names

Obstructive uropathy - bilateral - chronic; Kidney failure - chronic blockage

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

The most common cause of chronic bilateral obstructive uropathy is a condition called bladder outlet obstruction. The kidneys produce urine in the normal manner but the urine cannot leave the bladder. Urine backs up, causing kidney swelling and damage.

When the blockage causes urine to back up into both kidneys, hydronephrosis (swelling of the kidneys) results. High blood pressure and kidney failure can result.

In men, chronic bilateral obstructive uropathy is most often a result of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Other causes of chronic bilateral obstructive uropathy include:

Bladder tumors
Prostate tumors
Tumors or masses of the uterus or other structures around the bladder neck or urethra
Retroperitoneal fibrosis
Narrowing of the urethra due to a birth defect or scar tissue

Chronic bilateral obstructive uropathy occurs in about 1 out of every 1,000 people.

Symptoms

Symptoms depend on the nature of the obstruction and where in the urinary tract the obstruction occurs.

Some of the most common symptoms of chronic obstructive uropathy include:

Stronger and more frequent urge to urinate
Difficulty initiating the flow of urine (urinary hesitancy)
Dribbling of urine, incontinence
Decreased urine output
Decrease in the force of the urinary stream
Increased need to urinate at night
Burning or stinging with urination
Feeling of incomplete emptying of the bladder
Alternating times of increased urine output and decreased urine output
Fever and chills (if there is also a urinary tract infection)

Additional symptoms that may be associated with this disease:

Nail problems
High blood pressure
Abnormal urine color

Signs and tests

A physical exam may show swollen or tender kidneys. The bladder may be large and full. A rectal examination may reveal an enlarged prostate. Blood pressure may be high.

Blood tests will be done to check kidney function, electrolyte balance, and blood cell counts. Urine tests may reveal a urinary tract infection.

Other tests that may be done:

Abdominal ultrasound
Bladder scan
CT scan of abdomen and pelvis
Kidney scan
Uroflowmetry

Treatment

The goal of treatment is to get rid of the blockage. You may need to stay in a hospital for a short while.

Treatment may include:

Antibiotics to treat urinary tract infection
Catheterization-- the placement of a tube into the body to drain urine (See: urinary catheters)
Dialysis if kidney failure occurs
Laser or heat therapy to shrink the prostate if the problem is due to an enlarged prostate
Surgery such as transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP)
Other types of surgery for disorders causing blockage of the urethra or bladder neck

Expectations (prognosis)

Bilateral obstructive uropathy may be reversible if the blockage is corrected before kidney failure develops.

Chronic kidney failure leads to long-term kidney damage that can be life threatening.

Patients with a chronic blockage are at a higher risk for complications due to catheter use. Long-term catheter use (such as with a Foley catheter) may make the kidneys unable to concentrate urine. As a result, your body removes large amounts of urine that haven't been properly processed. This is called post-obstructive diuresis. It can be a life-threatening condition. Close monitoring is required.

If the obstruction was caused by cancer, the ultimate outcome depends on the disease severity and your response to treatment.

Complications

Chronic kidney failure
Complications due to long-term catheter use
Chronic or recurrent urinary tract infection
Long-term incontinence or urinary retention
Formation of ureter or kidney stones

Calling your health care provider

Call your health care provider if decreased urine output or other symptoms of chronic bilateral obstructive uropathy develop.

Prevention

Routine screening (and treatment) for lower urinary tract disorders may help prevent this condition. A digital rectal exam is used to screen men for prostate problems.

References

Wein AJ, et al. Campbell-Walsh Urology. 9th ed. St. Louis, Mo: WB Saunders; 2007.

Goldman L, Ausiello D, et al. Cecil Textbook of Medicine, 22nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders; 2004:741-742.

Review Date:1/24/2008
Reviewed By:Marc A. Greenstein, D.O., F.A.C.O.S. Urologist, Somerset Medical Center in Somerville, NJ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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