Introduction Antenatal hydronephrosis is a condition where an unborn baby’s kidneys appear swollen due to fluid accumulation, detected through prenatal ultrasound. Understanding this condition ensures timely medical care and proper kidney development.

Types and Causes Antenatal hydronephrosis can arise from:

• Urinary Tract Obstruction: A blockage that prevents normal urine flow.
• Vesicoureteral Reflux (VUR): Urine flows backward from the bladder to the kidneys.
• Transient Hydronephrosis: Temporary swelling that resolves without intervention.
• Multicystic Dysplastic Kidney (MCDK): Kidneys develop multiple cysts and may not function properly.

Signs and Diagnosis Prenatal Detection Detected during routine ultrasound scans in pregnancy.

Postnatal Evaluation Tests to assess kidney function and rule out complications include:

• Ultrasound Scans: Monitor kidney size and fluid buildup.
• Voiding Cystourethrogram (VCUG): Check for vesicoureteral reflux.
• Magnetic Resonance Urography (MRU): Detailed imaging of structural abnormalities.
• Renal Function Tests: Evaluate kidney efficiency.

Treatment Options Observation and Monitoring Mild cases may resolve on their own with regular follow-ups.

Medical Management

• Antibiotics: Prevent urinary tract infections and protect kidney health.
• Surgical Intervention: Procedures like pyeloplasty to remove obstructions.
• Catheterization: Relieve pressure from urine retention.

Long-Term Outlook and Prognosis Most infants experience normal kidney function with proper monitoring. Severe cases requiring surgery have high success rates, allowing children to lead healthy lives.

Conclusion Antenatal hydronephrosis is manageable with early diagnosis and care. Consult expert pediatric nephrologists at Little Stars & She Hospital for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plan.

Book an Appointment Today! Get specialized care at Little Stars & She Hospital to ensure the best outcomes for your child’s kidney health.