Decreased percent change in renal pelvis diameter on diuretic functional magnetic resonance urography following administration of furosemide may help characterize unilateral uretero-pelvic junction obstruction

BACKGROUND

A well-established definition of obstruction in the setting of congenital hydronephrosis is lacking. Multiple imaging modalities and radiographic characteristics or parameters have been described to help confirm the diagnosis of ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO). We sought to evaluate the change in anterior-posterior renal pelvic diameter (APRPD) following furosemide administration in patients with unilateral hydronephrosis and confirmed UPJO on functional magnetic resonance urography (fMRU) who underwent pyeloplasty.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

There were 49 patients who met inclusion criteria (11 females, 38 males; average age 2.2 years, SD 3.4 years) from February 2006 to September 2020, diagnosed with unilateral hydronephrosis (SFU Grade 3-4) who underwent fMRU prior to pyeloplasty for confirmed UPJO. 29 of the included patients also underwent a post-pyeloplasty fMRU. A weight-adjusted dose of 1 mg/kg of furosemide (max 20 mg/kg) was administered intravenously. Two board-certified pediatric radiologists measured the APRPD of the obstructed and non-dilated kidneys prior to pyeloplasty and APRPD of the hydronephrotic kidneys on the post-pyeloplasty follow up fMRUs. Measurements were performed on images prior to and approximately 30 min following furosemide injection.

RESULTS

The average APRPD before furosemide injection in the obstructed kidney prior to pyeloplasty was 26.3 mm (SD 9.0 mm) compared to the non-dilated (not obstructed) kidney measurement of 5.1 mm (SD 3.6 mm) (p < 0.001). Following administration of furosemide, the average APRPD was 31.4 mm (SD 8.8 mm) in the obstructed kidney, and 7.8 mm (SD 4.1 mm) in the non-dilated kidney (p < 0.001). After pyeloplasty, the pre-furosemide APRPD measurement was 17.8 mm (SD 11 mm), which was significantly less compared to the pre-pyeloplasty APRPD (p < 0.001). The post-pyeloplasty, post-furosemide APRPD measurement was 25.8 mm (SD 12 mm), also significantly less compared to the pre-pyeloplasty measurement (p = 0.02). The changes in APRPD in the obstructed kidney prior to pyeloplasty was 5.1 mm (SD 3.5 mm) and after pyeloplasty was 8 mm (SD 4.6 mm) (p = 0.002). Change in APRPD in the non-dilated kidney was 2.7 mm (SD 2.3 mm). Percent APRPD change in the obstructed kidney was 22.9% (SD 18.5%), which was significantly less than 33.3% (SD 22.1%) in the post-pyeloplasty kidney (p = 0.028) and 82.8% (SD 87.9%) in the non-dilated kidney (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

A relatively smaller change in APRPD on fMRU following administration of furosemide in the setting of UPJO may serve as another predictive characteristic of obstructed kidneys.

3D autofluorescence imaging of hydronephrosis and renal anatomical structure using cryo-micro-optical sectioning tomography

Rationale: Mesoscopic visualization of the main anatomical structures of the whole kidney in vivo plays an important role in the pathological diagnosis and exploration of the etiology of hydronephrosis. However, traditional imaging methods cannot achieve whole-kidney imaging with micron resolution under conditions representing in vivo perfusion. Methods: We used in vivo cryofixation (IVCF) to fix acute obstructive hydronephrosis (unilateral ureteral obstruction, UUO), chronic spontaneous hydronephrosis (db/db mice), and their control mouse kidneys for cryo-micro-optical sectioning tomography (cryo-MOST) autofluorescence imaging. We quantitatively assessed the kidney-wide pathological changes in the main anatomical structures, including hydronephrosis, renal subregions, arteries, veins, glomeruli, renal tubules, and peritubular functional capillaries. Results: By comparison with microcomputed tomography imaging, we confirmed that IVCF can maintain the status of the kidney in vivo. Cryo-MOST autofluorescence imaging can display the main renal anatomical structures with a cellular resolution without contrast agents. The hydronephrosis volume reached 26.11 ± 6.00 mm3 and 13.01 ± 3.74 mm3 in 3 days after UUO and in 15-week-old db/db mouse kidneys, respectively. The volume of the cortex and inner stripe of the outer medulla (ISOM) increased while that of the inner medulla (IM) decreased in UUO mouse kidneys. Db/db mice also showed an increase in the volume of the cortex and ISOM volume but no atrophy in the IM. The diameter of the proximal convoluted tubule and proximal straight tubule increased in both UUO and db/db mouse kidneys, indicating that proximal tubules were damaged. However, some renal tubules showed abnormal central bulge highlighting in the UUO mice, but the morphology of renal tubules was normal in the db/db mice, suggesting differences in the pathology and severity of hydronephrosis between the two models. UUO mouse kidneys also showed vascular damage, including segmental artery and vein atrophy and arcuate vein dilation, and the density of peritubular functional capillaries in the cortex and IM was reduced by 37.2% and 49.5%, respectively, suggesting renal hypoxia. In contrast, db/db mouse kidneys showed a normal vascular morphology and peritubular functional capillary density. Finally, we found that the db/db mice displayed vesicoureteral reflux and bladder overactivity, which may be the cause of hydronephrosis formation. Conclusions: We observed and compared main renal structural changes in hydronephrosis under conditions representing in vivo perfusion in UUO, db/db, and control mice through cryo-MOST autofluorescence imaging. The results indicate that cryo-MOST with IVCF can serve as a simple and powerful tool to quantitatively evaluate the in vivo pathological changes in three dimensions, especially the distribution of body fluids in the whole kidney. This method is potentially applicable to the three-dimensional visualization of other tissues, organs, and even the whole body, which may provide new insights into pathological changes in diseases.

Long non-coding RNA FABP5P3/miR-22 axis improves TGFβ1-induced fatty acid oxidation deregulation and fibrotic changes in proximal tubular epithelial cells of renal fibrosis

Severe hydronephrosis increases the risk of urinary tract infection and irretrievable renal fibrosis. While TGFβ1-mediated fibrotic changes in proximal tubular epithelial cells and fatty acid oxidation (FAO) deregulation contribute to renal fibrosis and hydronephrosis. Firstly, a few elements were analyzed in this paper, including differentially-expressed long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and miRNAs correlated to CPT1A, RXRA, and NCOA1. This paper investigated TGFβ1 effects on lncRNA FABP5P3, CPT1A, RXRA, and NCOA1 expression and fibrotic changes in HK-2 cells and FABP5P3 overexpression effects on TGFβ1-induced changes. Moreover, this paper predicted and proved that miR-22 binding to lncRNA FABP5P3, 3'UTR of CPT1A, RXRA, and NCOA1 was validated. The dynamic effects of the FABP5P3/miR-22 axis on TGFβ1-induced changes were investigated. A Renal fibrosis model was established in unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) mice, and FABP5P3 effects were investigated. Eventually, this paper concluded that TGFβ1 inhibited lncRNA FABP5P3, CPT1A, RXRA, and NCOA1 expression, induced fibrotic changes in HK-2 cells, and induced metabolic reprogramming within HK-2 cells, especially lower FAO. FABP5P3 overexpression partially reversed TGFβ1-induced changes. miR-22 targeted lncRNA FABP5P3, CPT1A, RXRA, and NCOA1. LncRNA FABP5P3 counteracted miR-22 inhibition of CPT1A, NCOA1, and RXRA through competitive binding. TGFβ1 stimulation induced the activation of TGFβ/SMAD and JAG/Notch signaling pathways; Nocth2 knockdown reversed TGFβ1 suppression on lncRNA FABP5P3. FABP5P3 overexpression attenuated renal fibrosis in unilateral ureteral obstruction mice. The LncRNA FABP5P3/miR-22 axis might be a potent target for improving the FAO deregulation and fibrotic changes in proximal TECs under TGFβ1 stimulation.

Unusual Clinical Presentation of Hodgkin Lymphoma in a Child: Both Spinal Cord Compression and Hydronephrosis

BACKGROUND

Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) is predominantly a nodal disease with extranodal presentation being uncommon. Presentation with neurological symptoms is not uncommon in adult patients with HL. Subdiaphragmatic involvements are less common especially in childhood. In the literature, there has been no case which presented with both spinal cord compression and bilateral hydronephrosis in pediatric patients with HL.

OBSERVATION

We report a 9-year-old boy diagnosed with HL who presented with bilateral hydronephrosis and epidural involvement.

CONCLUSION

Differential diagnosis of abdominal mass in patients presenting with spinal cord compression and/or hydronephrosis should include HL. Retrograde J ureteral stenting is the treatment of choice for malignant ureteral obstruction.

Graft kidney hydronephrosis caused by transplant ureter inguinal hernia: A case report

RATIONALE

Ureteral obstruction of the graft kidney is a common complication of kidney transplantation. However, ureteral obstruction caused by inguinal hernia has rarely been reported. We present a rare case of ureteral obstruction with allograft dysfunction caused by an inguinal hernia.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 76-year-old man, who was a renal transplant recipient, presented with bilateral pitting oedema, reduced urine output, and right inguinal hernia.

DIAGNOSES

Abdominal computed tomography revealed severe hydroureteronephrosis of the kidney allograft. A right inguinal hernia with ureteral incarceration was observed.

INTERVENTIONS

The patient underwent graft percutaneous nephrostomy, followed by antegrade insertion of a double-J tube (DJ). Gradual improvement was observed in his renal function. Right inguinal herniorrhaphy was performed 5 days later.

OUTCOMES

The renal function returned to normal after percutaneous nephrostomy and insertion of the DJ. A right inguinal direct-type hernia with ureter adhesion to the hernial sac was observed during the surgery. The posterior wall defect was repaired by the McVay technique. The DJ was removed after 1 month. The patient's renal function remained stable at 6-month follow-up.

LESSONS

The orientation of the graft kidney has a significant influence on the location of the ureter. Upward orientation of the hilum will result in superficial location of the ureter, rendering it close to the hernial sac and susceptible to incarceration. The transplant surgeon should be aware of such a presentation of graft dysfunction with inguinal hernia to prevent a delay in the diagnosis and graft loss.

Antenatally detected urinary tract dilatation: a 12-15-year follow-up

BACKGROUND

Antenatally diagnosed urinary tract dilatation (UTD) still burdens healthcare providers and parents. This study was conducted to establish long-term outcome in an unselected group of children with antenatally detected UTD.

METHODS

Seventy-one out of 103 children born in 2003-2005 and diagnosed with antenatal UTD agreed to participate in a 12-15-year follow-up including blood and urine samples, a kidney ultrasound exam, and kidney scintigraphy. The records were searched for previous urinary tract infections.

RESULTS

Among children with an anteroposterior diameter (APD) ≤ 7 mm and no calyceal, kidney, ureteral, or bladder pathology in the early postnatal period, no one tested had reduced estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), albuminuria, or UTD at the follow-up at a mean age of 13.6 years. One child had kidney damage not affecting kidney function. Among children with postnatal APD > 7 mm and/or kidney, calyceal, ureteral, or bladder pathology, 15% had persistent UTD and 32-39% (depending on the method used) had kidney damage. Major postnatal urinary tract ultrasound abnormalities and a congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract (CAKUT) diagnosis were factors associated with an increased risk for permanent kidney damage (odds ratios 8.9, p = 0.016; and 14.0, p = 0.002, respectively). No one had reduced eGFR. One child (1/71, 1%) had a febrile urinary tract infection after the age of 2.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that in children with postnatal APD ≤ 7 mm, no calyceal dilatation, normal bladder, ureters, and kidney parenchyma, the outcome is excellent. There is no need for long-term follow-up in these patients.

Right hydronephrosis as a sign of complicated appendicitis

OBJECTIVE

Acute appendicitis is known for one of the most common cause of acute abdomen. However, it is still challenging to clearly distinguish complicated from uncomplicated appendicitis preoperatively. We investigated the association between right hydronephrosis and complicated appendicitis compared with other computed tomography (CT) findings of acute appendicitis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

1275 patients who pathologically diagnosed with acute appendicitis were included. They were classified into the complicated appendicitis and uncomplicated appendicitis groups based on their histopathological results. We reviewed their CT findings, including right hydronephrosis, appendiceal wall defect, periappendiceal abscess, extraluminal or intraluminal free air, appendicolith, appendiceal dilatation, appendiceal wall thickening, periappendiceal infiltration, periappendiceal fluid collection, and ascites. Comparison between the two groups was performed and the diagnostic performance of each CT finding was evaluated. The location of appendix and periureteral extension of periappendiceal infiltration were evaluated in patients with right hydronephrosis.

RESULTS

Out of 1275 patients, 29 (2.3 %) patients showed right hydronephrosis. Right hydronephrosis was significantly related to complicated appendicitis with the odds ratio of 4.90 (95 % confidence interval, 1.62-14.83; P = 0.005). Right hydronephrosis yielded specificity of 99.3 %. All patients with right hydronephrosis accompanied with periappendiceal infiltration and 28 (96.6 %) patients showed periureteral extension. Subcecal and pelvic areas are the most common locations, with 11 (37.9 %) patients each.

CONCLUSION

The presence of right hydronephrosis was specific finding for complicated appendicitis and it could be considered as one of indirect sign of complicated appendicitis.

A mutation affecting laminin alpha 5 polymerisation gives rise to a syndromic developmental disorder

Laminin alpha 5 (LAMA5) is a member of a large family of proteins that trimerise and then polymerise to form a central component of all basement membranes. Consequently, the protein plays an instrumental role in shaping the normal development of the kidney, skin, neural tube, lung and limb, and many other organs and tissues. Pathogenic mutations in some laminins have been shown to cause a range of largely syndromic conditions affecting the competency of the basement membranes to which they contribute. We report the identification of a mutation in the polymerisation domain of LAMA5 in a patient with a complex syndromic disease characterised by defects in kidney, craniofacial and limb development, and by a range of other congenital defects. Using CRISPR-generated mouse models and biochemical assays, we demonstrate the pathogenicity of this variant, showing that the change results in a failure of the polymerisation of α/β/γ laminin trimers. Comparing these in vivo phenotypes with those apparent upon gene deletion in mice provides insights into the specific functional importance of laminin polymerisation during development and tissue homeostasis.

Validation of "urinary tract dilation" classification system: Correlation between fetal hydronephrosis and postnatal urological abnormalities

Aim to illuminate the correlation between fetal hydronephrosis and postnatal urological abnormalities by a new classification system-"urinary tract dilation (UTD)" grade.Of 659 pregnancies screened by ultrasound, 34 cases were found with isolated fetal hydronephrosis, and enrolled in our study from 2017 to 2019. These 34 infants had been prospectively followed up to 6 months after birth by 3 times of urinary tract ultrasound. Hydronephrosis was graded in accordance with the UTD classification system.Among 34 infants with isolated fetal hydronephrosis. Twenty-four (70.6%) were classified as UTD A1 grade (mild hydronephrosis), and the other 10 (29.4%) were UTD A2-3 grade (moderate to severe hydronephrosis) by antenatal evaluation. After birth, all of the 24 infants (70.6%) with UTD A1 grade had normal ultrasonic findings of urinary tract; while the other 10 cases with UTD A2-3 grade had persistent abnormalities of urinary tract by postnatal assessment, sorted as UTD P1 grade (mild hydronephrosis) in 6 cases (17.6%), UTD P2 grade (moderate hydronephrosis) in 2 cases (5.9%) and UTD P3 grade (severe hydronephrosis) in 2 cases (5.9%). The most common postnatal urological abnormality of isolated fetal hydronephrosis was vesicoureteral reflux. During the follow-up period, 7 infants (20.6%) had urinary tract infection episodes and very few obtained positive cultures of the urine. Only 2 infants (5.9%) with the diagnosis of ureterovesical junction obstruction required surgery intervention, who were both classified as UTD P3 grade. None of the children with UTD P1 and P2 grades needed operation.The UTD classification system described the urinary tract both antenatally and postnatally, which could point out the correlation between fetal hydronephrosis and postnatal urological abnormalities. This new classification system is expected to be a good prognostic marker for fetal hydronephrosis.

Bladder-sparing treatment of nonmetastatic muscle-invasive bladder cancer

Bladder-sparing therapies for the treatment of nonmetastatic muscle-invasive bladder cancers are included in both American and European guidelines. Numerous treatment approaches have been described, including partial cystectomy, radiation monotherapy, and radical transurethral resection. However, the most oncologically favorable and well-studied regimen employs a multimodal approach that consists of maximal transurethral resection of the bladder tumor followed by concurrent radiosensitizing chemotherapy and radiotherapy. This sequence, referred to as trimodal therapy (TMT), has been evaluated with robust retrospective comparative studies and prospective series, although a randomized trial comparing TMT with radical cystectomy has not been performed. Despite promising reports of 5-year overall survival rates of 50% to 70% in well-selected patients, relatively few patients qualify as ideal candidates for TMT. Specifically, contemporary series exclude patients who have clinical stage T3 disease, multifocal tumors, coexisting carcinoma in situ, or hydronephrosis. Herein, we review all forms of bladder-preserving therapies with an emphasis on TMT, highlighting the rationale of each component, survival outcomes, and future directions.

Robot-assisted Laparoscopic Pyeloplasty for "Huge" Hydronephrosis Causing Vena Cava Thrombus

OBJECTIVE

To present a rare case of "huge" hydronephrosis causing distortion of large vessels and formation of a thrombus in the inferior vena cava. Multidisciplinary treatment was applied with particular focus on pyeloplasty utilizing a robot-assisted laparoscopic approach.

METHODS

A 20-month-old male presented to the emergency room severely ill with abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever and was subsequently transferred to the intensive care unit, in septic shock. An abdominal ultrasound revealed a large multilobular cystic structure in the right hemiabdomen, which was initially interpreted as an infected mesenteric cyst. CT scan revealed a huge hydronephrotic kidney crossing the midline, causing a mass effect that compressed and distorted the vena cava laterally, in addition to a thrombus between the hepatic vein and right renal vein. Intravenous Ceftriaxone and Amikacin, as well as anticoagulation therapy with low molecular weight heparin (Enoxaparin) were initiated. A nephrostomy tube was inserted that drained 900 mL of purulent urine. A full hematology investigation including protein C, S, and antithrombin III was carried out, excluding factor V Leiden and prothrombin mutation. All values were in the normal range. Dimercaptosuccinic Acid (DMSA) scan showed 30% function on the affected kidney and Voiding Cystourethrogram (VCUG) excluded any bladder pathology or reflux. Subcutaneous Enoxaparin was continued for 3 months, maintaining antifactor Xa in the therapeutic range (0.7-1 IU/mL). Ultrasound Doppler of the vena cava showed full resolution of the thrombus. Robot-assisted laparoscopic pyeloplasty was performed and significant reduction of the renal pelvis was carried out, taking care to preserve the calyces. Postoperative ultrasound 4 months after surgery showed a complete resolution of the hydronephrosis.

CONCLUSION

Giant hydronephrosis is a rare finding. Distortion of adjacent veins and formation of thrombosis should be kept in mind, as they are life threatening. A multidisciplinary collaboration is mandatory to ensure optimal treatment.

THE ROLE OF RADIOACTIVE METHODS IN THE DIAGNOSTIC TYPE OF HYDRONEPHROSIS IN CLEAN-UP WORKERS OF CHORNOBYL ACCIDENT

RATIONALE

Since the introduction of radionuclide research methods into clinical practice, they occupy an importantplace in the diagnosis of hydronephrosis and, at the same time, sufficiently objective, sensitive and atraumaticmethods of investigation.

OBJECTIVE

On the basis of retrospective data, to investigate the diagnostic role of radionuclide renography (RRG)and the method of indirect radionuclide renangiography (IRAG) in clean-up workers of Chornobyl accident withhydronephrosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 257 patients with hydronephrosis (140 women and 117 men) aged 15 to 77 yearswere examined by the RRG and the IRAG. The RRG technique consists of intravenous administration of a solution of131I-hypurane (2.5 kBq/kg) and continuous registration for 20 minutes of the level of radioactivity above the kid-neys with the help of sensors of the renograph UR 1-1. The IRAG was conducted for 30-45 seconds with exposure1 frame per second after intravenous administration of a solution of 99mTc-pentatech (2 MBq/kg).

RESULTS

The results of the radionuclide study of the hemodynamics of patients with different stages ofhydronephrosis made it possible to draw a conclusion regarding the expediency of taking into account the condi-tion of the cup-pelvic system in the preoperative period, as well as the parameters of the arterial and venous circu-lation.

CONCLUSIONS

Combined use of X-ray and radionuclide methods allows establishing the cause and consequences ofhydronephrosis, to develop a rational treatment plan. RRG and IRAG are reliable methods of dynamic control in post-operative observation of clean-up workers of Chornobyl accident with hydronephrosis.

Vanin-1 in Renal Pelvic Urine Reflects Kidney Injury in a Rat Model of Hydronephrosis

Urinary tract obstruction and the subsequent development of hydronephrosis can cause kidney injuries, which results in chronic kidney disease. Although it is important to detect kidney injuries at an early stage, new biomarkers of hydronephrosis have not been identified. In this study, we examined whether vanin-1 could be a potential biomarker for hydronephrosis. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO). On day 7 after UUO, when the histopathological renal tubular injuries became obvious, the vanin-1 level in the renal pelvic urine was significantly higher than that in voided urine from sham-operated rats. Furthermore, vanin-1 remained at the same level until day 14. There was no significant difference in the serum vanin-1 level between sham-operated rats and rats with UUO. In the kidney tissue, the mRNA and protein expressions of vanin-1 significantly decreased, whereas there was increased expression of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 and Snail-1, which plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of renal fibrosis via epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). These results suggest that vanin-1 in the renal pelvic urine is released from the renal tubular cells of UUO rats and reflects renal tubular injuries at an early stage. Urinary vanin-1 may serve as a candidate biomarker of renal tubular injury due to hydronephrosis.

Role of transvaginal ultrasound in evaluation of ureteral involvement in deep infiltrating endometriosis

OBJECTIVE

To assess whether routine examination of the ureters on transvaginal sonography (TVS) can identify reliably potential silent ureteral involvement by endometriosis and should therefore be recommended in all patients with deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE).

METHODS

This was a prospective study of 200 consecutive patients scheduled for surgery for DIE, evaluated between January 2012 and December 2014 at a tertiary endometriosis center at Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, Rome, Italy. Routine TVS, abdominal ultrasound and gynecological examination were performed within 3 months before surgery, and patient history, signs and symptoms were recorded. Surgical and histological findings were compared with the preoperative ultrasonographic diagnosis. The main outcome of interest was the presence of ureteral dilatation or hydronephrosis caused by endometriosis.

RESULTS

Of 200 patients with DIE, associated ureteral dilatation was diagnosed on TVS in 13 (6.5%) cases. Ureteral involvement was confirmed intraoperatively in all 13 cases by detection of ureteral dilatation caused by endometriotic tissue surrounding the ureter and causing stenosis. Of the 13 patients with ureteral dilatation, renal ultrasound detected six (46.2%) cases of hydronephrosis. Mean duration of visualization and study of dilated ureters was 5 min (range, 3-9 min). Ureteric diameter was ≥ 6 mm in all cases of ureteral dilatation, with a median diameter of 6.9 mm (range, 6-18 mm). Both ureters were identified on TVS in all 200 patients with DIE.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study confirms a relatively high incidence of ureteral involvement in patients with DIE. TVS appears to be a reliable tool for the diagnosis of ureteral involvement and, additionally, it allows the detection of both the level and degree of obstruction. Our findings confirm that TVS examination is an accurate non-invasive diagnostic tool for the detection of ureteral involvement by endometriosis. Copyright © 2017 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Dolphin Morbillivirus Associated with a Mass Stranding of Sperm Whales, Italy

In September 2014, seven sperm whales were stranded along Italy’s Adriatic coastline. Postmortem investigations on 3 female adult whales and 1 male fetus carried by the largest female revealed molecular and immunohistochemical evidence of dolphin morbillivirus infection. A possible role of the virus in the stranding event was considered.

Conservative/surgical treatment predictors of maternal hydronephrosis: results of a single-center retrospective non-randomized non-controlled observational study

PURPOSE

To determine the parameters that may help the clinicians decide the best suitable treatment method for the pregnant women with symptomatic hydronephrosis which will be based on the easily accessible laboratory tests, monitoring methods and clinical symptoms.

METHODS

Digital data and documents of 246 pregnant women with symptomatic hydronephrosis who were hospitalized in our clinic between the dates of January 2011 and January 2016 were retrospectively evaluated. All patients were statistically evaluated in terms of age, symptomatic maximal anterior-posterior diameter of the renal pelvis (MADP), parity, C-reactive protein (CRP) level, white blood cell count (WBC), presence of pyuria, growth of urine culture, fever, serum urine and creatinine levels, visual analog scale (VAS) score of pre- and post-therapy and threatened preterm labor.

RESULTS

The study includes a total of 211 pregnant women with symptomatic hydronephrosis. In the second and third trimester groups, the surgical treatment group statistically provided higher levels of CRP, WBC and VAS. Mean MADP in the second trimester of the conservative and surgical groups where symptomatic hydronephrosis was on the right side was 16.67 ± 4.67 and 28.68 ± 7.70 mm, respectively. Mean MADP in the third trimester group of the conservative and surgical groups where symptomatic hydronephrosis was on the right side was 16.96 ± 5.96 and 28.85 ± 7.64 mm, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with symptomatic pregnancy hydronephrosis, the likelihood of surgical treatment for CRP levels, WBC counts and VAS is high.

Cyst-to-kidney volume ratio in the sonographic diagnosis of unilateral multicystic dysplastic kidney in children

AIMS

To evaluate the usefulness of the cyst-to-kidney volume ratio determined by ultrasonography (US) in unilateral multicystic dysplastic kidney (MCDK) in children.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Our study group included 21 children (average age: 431 days) with unilateral MCDK and 22 children (average age: 440 days) with unilateral grade IV hydronephrosis due to ureteropelvic junction obstruction as the control group. All the children underwent transabdominal US. In children with MCDK, we calculated cyst-to-kidney volume ratios (volume of the largest cyst/volume of the MCDK) and in the control group the volume ratios of the renal pelvis and the largest calyx (volume of the pelvis or largest calyx/volume of the ipsilateral hydronephrotic kidney). Ellipsoid formula was used to calculate kidney and pelvis volumes. Sphere volume formula was used to calculate the largest cyst and calyx volumes.

RESULTS

The mean cyst-to-kidney volume ratio (0.38±0.21) was significantly higher than the mean volume ratios of the renal pelvises (0.10±0.05) and the largest calyces (0.04±0.02) (p<0.05). There was no significant correlation between cyst-to-kidney volume ratio and the ages of the children (r=0.141, p=0.541).

CONCLUSIONS

 With the aid of both the qualitative sonographic criteria and the newer data that we have proposed, US is a useful tool in the initial diagnosis of MCDK and for differentiation of MCDKs from grade IV hydronephrotic kidneys in children. The cyst-tokidney volume ratio is independent of age and thus, it can be helpful in the diagnosis of unilateral MCDK at any age.

[ОPTIMIZATION OF EXAMINATION ALGORITHM FOR PATIENTS BEFORE AND AFTER OPERATIVE INTERVENTION FOR HYDRONEPHROSIS]

Algorithm of the patients examination, suffering hydronephrosis, caused by obstruction of different etiology, was optimized, what permitted, using qualification of rational volume and sequence of diagnostic methods, owing high sensitivity and specificity, as well as morphological diagnostic coefficients (parenchymal—stromal, dysbalance of collagens) and the risk criterion for recurrence occurrence, to estimate renal structure— functional state, to determine the disease stage, its course severity and to substantiate a volume and duration of preoperative preparation needed, the operative intervention kind and postoperative management of the patients.

THE USE OF BOWEL FOR BILATERAL URETER SUBSTITUTION: A CASE REPORT AND REVIEW OF LITERATURE

Intestinal ureteral replacement remains a useful procedure for complex ureteral reconstruction. Bilateral ureteral substitution is more complicated procedure. There are some different methods of ureteroplasty. In our case we used Libertino modification. In this case we have examined safety and efficacy of this procedure, surgical outcome and impact on renal function. Our results were compared to literature findings. November 2013 year 52 years female patient underwent bilateral ureter replacement using the ileal segment of bowel. Exclusion criteria were elevated serum creatinine above to - 1.8 mg/dl, inflammatory bowel syndrome. Preoperatively we prepared patient with antibiotic therapy. Post-surgery was examined level of serum creatinine, dilatation of upper urinary tract, hematocrits, biochemical analysis, urinary tract infection, postoperative complications, and clinical outcomes. Follow-up protocol was carried out for up to 18 month. There were no intra-operative or postoperative mortality or significant complications in our case. There was no significant blood loss during operation. Blood transfusion was - 230ml. There was minor by-effect in the form of mucus production and there was needful oral treatment with bladder irrigation. During follow up, no excess metabolic abnormalities were encountered. Renal function was normal without any evidence of urinary obstruction. Urinary tract infection was only non-etiologic mean. According to our case and revive of literature ureteric substitution with ileal segment is a safe technique with a positive outcome. It uses of any kind ureteric injury: iatrogenic or idiopathic; unilateral or bilateral. It is not associated with excess mucus metabolic abnormalities and preserved renal function without urinary tract infection or obstruction.

[Morphogenesis of connective tissue in patients with hydronephrosis caused by stricture of ureteric-pelvic segment of various etiology]

In patients, suffering hydronephrosis stages II-III, caused by the ureteric-pelvic segment (UPS) obstruction due to inborn failures of urinary system, the collagen types I and III ratio reduction, and in acquired obstruction--its enhancement, are noted in interstitium, renal parenchyma vessels and the UPS walls. While obstruction in patients due to inborn failures in vascular basal membranes a deficiency of collagen type IV and appearance of nontypical for vascular basal membranes intersticial collagen type Il are observed. In the acquired UPS, obstruction the, enhancement of content of collagen type IV is revealed only. These disorders are mostly pronounced in patients with the disease recurrence. There was proposed diagnostic coefficient of ratio between collagens types I and III in patients, suffering hydronephrosis, caused by obstruction of various etiology. In hydronephrosis, caused by the UPS stricture, the cytokines disbalance occurs, impacting processes of collagen formation.

[Changes of the cytokines profile in patients with hydronephrosis and indicated operative treatment]

The pronounced dysbalance of the cytokines profiles in the blood of patients, suffering recurrent hydronephrosis, caused by pelvio-ureteric segment stenosis of various etiology and in different clinical course, in the inborn obstruction especially, was revealed on a 21th postoperative day, witnessing the existence of various ways of the stricture recurrence occurrence. As a prognostic criterion of risk of the recurrence occurrence there were proposed: a ratio of level of a tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) to interleukin-10 (IL-10) level, and as an additional diagnostic criterion--the IL-17 level, as well as revealing of the inherited genesis of the disorder in a system of fibrillogenesis regulation--the IL-4 level.

[Peculiarities of the connective tissue metabolism in patients with hydronephrosis]

The connective tissue metabolism was investigated in patients, suffering hydronephrosis, caused by obstruction of various etiology of pelvio-ureteric segment (PUS) and ureter, which has a recurrent course. On the 21th day postoperatively the blood indices enhancement was revealed, what characterizes the disorder of collagen synthesis and degradation, including, free (FOP), proteinbinded (PRBOP) and peptidebinded (PEBOP) oxyproline. The changes noted are more pronounced in patients with the inborn obstruction of PUS and recurrent course of the disease. A new marker--the PRBOP to FOP levels ratio--was proposed for prognostication of stricture recurrence.

[Pathogenesis and therapy of hydronephrosis after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the pathogenesis and therapy of hydronephrosis after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT).

METHODS

From March 2004 to March 2014, 23 patients with hydronephrosis after HSCT were identified. With these data, the pathogenesis of hydronephrosis after HSCT were analyzed. According to the surgical intervention of hydronephrosis and ureteral dialation of ureteral stricture, the patients were divided into two groups, rank-sum test and exact probability test were used to evaluate whether there were significant differences in the time of hemorrhagic cystitis (HC) occurred, ureteritis and viremia.

RESULTS

HC, ureteritis, ureteral stenosis were all the causes of hydronephrosis after HSCT. In this study, 69.6% (16/23) of the patients suffered from HSCT were cured by conservative treatment, 30.4% (7/23) by surgical intervention, and 13.0% (3/23) by insertion DJ stent or nephrostomy.Of the patients [17.4% (4/23)] who suffered ureteral stenosis, 2 were cured after the balloon dialation of ureter, 1 needed DJ tube long-term insertion, and 1 was still followed-up. rank-sum test and exact probability test results showed that the patients who needed surgical intervention might suffer from HC later than other patients, and their incidences of viremia and ureteritis were higher, but the differences between the two groups were not statistically significant (P = 0.524, P = 0.169, and P = 0.124, respectively). The results also showed that the ureteritis incidences of the patients who suffered from ureteral stricture and needed ureteral dialation were higher than that of the other patients, and the difference between the two groups was statistically significant (P = 0.024). The patients who needed ureteral dialation suffered from HC later and their incidences of viremia was higher, but the differences between the two groups were not statistically significant (P = 0.73 and P = 0.27).

CONCLUSION

HC, ureteritis and ureteral stenosis may cause hydronephrosis after HSCT. Patients may treated by conservative treatment first. Patients who suffered from HC later, viremia and especially ureteritis should be paid more attention to, and be treated with surgical intervention when necessary. The patients with ureteral stenosis could be treated by ureteral balloon dialation.

[Scanning electron microscopy of resected ureters in children with ureterohydronephrosis]

Using scanning electron microscopy, various portions of the ureter in reflux and obstructive ureterohydronephrosis in children were evaluated. In the first case, architectonics of the distal portions is preserved, while in the second case connective tissue is proliferated. Differences in the structure of proximal and distal portions in both forms of ureterohydronephrosis consist in inflammatory changes and violation of the integrity of the epithelial lining, edema and infiltration of the underlying layers, especially the inner muscle layer of the distal portion. The wall of the ureter in proximal part is much thinner, especially the muscular and mucous layers.

Primary obstructed megaureter (POM) in children

The aim of this study was to analyze the results of surgical and conservative treatment of non-refluxing POM. In the period 2000-2009, 45 children (52 ureters) were treated, the average age was 5.8 months (±10.33), 24 children (26 ureters) by surgery (I) and 21 children (26 ureters) by conservative means (II). The average follow-up period was 73.8 (±32.91) and 30.85 months (±23.1) resp. Urine examination, USG, DTPA99mTc, biochemical testing, micturating cystouretography in all patients were performed. Significant difference was present in the occurrence of hydronephrosis of 0th, 3rd and 4th grade, p10 mm, p<0.01; and in the occurrence of normal and prolonged time T ½, p<0.01. The health condition was adjusted in 13 (54.20 %), improved on DTPA99mTc in 5 (20.85 %), non-improved in 3 (12.50 %), deteriorated in 1 (4.15 %) and unknown in 2 (8.3 %) patients. In the IInd group a significant difference was in case of occurrence of hydronephrosis of 0th, 2nd and 3rd grade, (p<0.01, or p=0.037 and p=0.011) and in occurrence of normal ureter, with ureter 0-5 mm and dilated ureter 5-10 mm, p<0.01. The condition at the end of the follow-up period was assessed DTPA99mTc as adjusted in 11 (52.39 %) patients, improved in 6 (28.57 %), unimproved in 3 (14.28 %) and no patient was assessed as having deteriorated and unknown in 1 (4.76 %).

CONCLUSION

In patients with an impaired separate kidney function, early surgical treatment helps to minimize damage to the kidney function and prevents future complications (Tab. 6, Fig. 3, Ref. 32).

[Features of drainage of pyelocaliceal system in children after laparoscopic pyeloplasty]

The study was aimed to improvement of results of treatment of children with congenital hydronephrosis due to reduction ofinvasiveness of operative approach and optimization of method of urine derivation in the postoperative period. From February 2008 to February 2012, 30 laparoscopic pyeloplasty were performed (16 boys, 14 girls, age from 2 months to 14 years, body weight 5500 g and more). Transabdominal pyeloplasty was performed by the Hynes-Anderson method. In 13 cases the ureteral stent deployment was performed, in 8 - pyelostoma was performed, nephrostomy performed earlier was maintained in 2 children, and in 7 children nephrostomy was performed by the proposed method. The mean duration of surgery was 110 (80-240) min. Results were followed for 3 to 53 months. 1 child on the 2nd day had falling pielostomy with the development of pyelonephritis, and 1 child had formation of urinoma. Both children had consistent anastomosis not required re-pyeloplasty. One child had persistent anastomotic stricture, which required re-pyeloplasty. Follow-up examinations included the ultrasound and intravenous urography. At the present moment, there are no complaints at all children, exacerbations of infections of the urinary system are not registered. Thus, laparoscopic pyeloplasty is an effective technique regardless of the age of the children, but it is necessary to further improve the drainage of the pelvicalyceal system in the postoperative period.

Residual valve and stricture after posterior urethral valve ablation: how to evaluate?

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the clinical and radiological parameters of posterior urethral valve (PUV) patients with residual valve or strictures after primary valve ablation.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 127 PUV patients were treated in our clinic between 1986 and 2009. We retrospectively reviewed the records of 101 patients, who had at least 1 year of follow-up data, regarding the presence of valve remnants or urethral strictures after PUV ablation.

RESULTS

A total of 21 patients (20.8%) underwent repeat-urethroscopy and, of these, residual valve leaflets or stricture were detected in 10 patients (10/101, 9.9%). In 2 of these 10 (20%), the urethra had been found to be normal on the first voiding cystourethrogram following ablation. However, these two boys underwent re-urethroscopy due to persistent vesicoureteral reflux in one and persistent hydroureteronephrosis in the other, and valve remnants were detected. The remaining 8 cases had radiological signs consistent with persistent infravesical obstruction in the early period. Obstruction was due to urethral stricture and residual valve remnants in 2 and 6 cases, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

There was clinical suspicion of residual valve in about 20% of the cases and in half of these the urethra was found to be normal on urethroscopy. The possible presence of residual valve remnants after primary valve ablation should be confirmed by careful clinical, radiological and endoscopic evaluation.

Elevation of Ca 125 in a patient with giant congenital hydronephrosis

OBJECTIVE

To report a new case with elevation of Ca 125 and hydronephrotic kidney without neoplastic disease, having special reference to clinical aspects.

METHOD

The clinical history, anatomopathological and immunohistochemical findings are described. We performed a bibliographic review. We report the case of a 27 year-old female with the diagnosis of giant hydronephrosis and Ca125 elevation (313 u/ml hydronephrotic kidney urine and 112.3 u/ml serum).

RESULT

She underwent a radical nephrectomy and Ca125 levels decreased. After 9 years the patient did not have any neoplastic disease and Ca125 levels are normal.

CONCLUSIONS

The Ca125 rise with hydronephrotic kidney may be usual although there are not enough studies. We think that in patients with hydronephrotic kidney and malignant neoplasm the Ca125 antigen can lose sensitivity for the early diagnosis, staging and follow up of the malignant diseases.

[Clinical efficacy of Longidaze for the prevention of cicatricial and sclerotic complications after surgery on the upper urinary tract]

Results of surgical treatment of patients with ureteral obstruction are not always successful. Prevention of cicatricial and sclerotic complications in the postoperative period plays an important role. In this connection, search for pathogenetic methods that prevent the recurrence of strictures is one of the urgent problems of modern urology. 80 patients, divided into two groups (study and control), each of which was divided into three subgroups depending on the cause and degree of hydronephrosis, were followed-up. The first group consisted of patients with congenital hydronephrosis, the second group consisted of patients who underwent gynecological surgery with development of ureterohydronephrosis as complication. The third group consisted of patients with urolithiasis. All patients received surgical treatment. In postoperative period, active prevention of cicatricial and sclerotic complications in study group of 44 patients was performed. The control group consisted of 36 patients with history of surgery on the upper urinary tract without active antisclerotic prevention in the postoperative period. After interventions on urinary tract, comprehensive postoperative prevention of cicatricial and sclerotic complications using drug Longidaze 3000 IU for 10 injections intramuscularly 1 time every 3 days in combination with magnetic-laser therapy is recommended.

Obstructive uropathy secondary to uterine leiomyoma in a chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes)

Complications due to uterine leiomyomata in chimpanzees have rarely been documented. Here we describe a female chimpanzee that developed severe hydronephrosis in the right kidney due to leiomyoma. Because hysterectomy did not alleviate the hydronephrosis, nephrectomy was elected. After these procedures, the chimpanzee is doing well. Leiomyomata screening programs with treatment algorithms are a useful component of a comprehensive chimpanzee program.

[Ureterohydronephrosis at pelvic prolapse in women]

The study was aimed to examination of prevalence of obstructive complications of the upper urinary tract in patients with pelvic prolapse and evaluation of the effectiveness of their correction using modern reconstructive surgery. Bilateral ureterohydronephrosis was detected in 14 (12%) of 117 patients. In patients with stage IV pelvic prolapse, proportion of patients with hydronephrosis was much higher--22.6%. Transvaginal reconstructive surgery with the installation of synthetic mesh prosthesis according to the Tension free Vaginal Mesh method ensured the restoration of normal anatomy of the pelvic floor and allowed to eliminate obstructive disorders of the upper urinary tract and their complications.

Is there a difference in percutaneous nephrolithotomy outcomes among various types of pelvicaliceal system?

PURPOSE

During PNL procedures, stone clearance can be achieved by single access or multiple accesses for same stone size and configuration. At this point, we believed that pelvicaliceal system type may play a significant role on stone clearance. In our study, we aimed to investigate the effect of pelvicaliceal system type on PNL outcomes.

METHODS

A total of 498 patients who had preoperative intravenous urography were enrolled in our study. PCSs of the patients were classified as A1, A2, B1, and B2 according to Sampaio system after evaluation of IVU images. The exclusion criteria were unclassified pelvicaliceal system due to the presence of exaggerated renal hydronephrosis, IVUs with poor quality, radiolucent renal stones, and absence of CT or IVU in postoperative period.

RESULTS

There was no clinically significant difference for patient gender, history of open surgery, and history of previous SWL. Success rates of PNL were 79.5, 82.0, 74.3, and 80.3 % in Sampaio type A1, A2, B1, and B2 PCS, respectively (p 0.61). Multiple accesses were required for 35 (18.8 %), 14 (17.9 %), 55 (30.1 %), and 6 (11.8 %) patients according to Sampaio classification type A1, A2, B1, and B2, respectively (p 0.008). There was no clinically significant difference for stone size, stone configuration (simple or complex), and complications.

CONCLUSION

Sampaio type B1 PCSs require increased number of access for achieving stone clearance. Therefore, surgeons should be aware and also inform patients that treatment of patients with Sampaio type B1 PCS may need high number of access during PNL procedure.

Fetal hydronephrosis: optimal renal pelvic measurement to increase detection rate for renal pathology

We reviewed the outcome of fetal hydronephrosis with a renal pelvic dilatation (RPD) of 4-7 mm to assess whether a RPD > 7 mm had a higher predictive value for renal pathology. 373 fetuses were diagnosed with hydronephrosis giving an incidence of 2.2%. The male: female ratio was 1.8:1. 5(1.34%) fetuses with antenatal hydronephrosis were diagnosed with Down Syndrome. 299 (91.7% fetuses with an RPD of 4-7 mm had resolved by 34 weeks gestation with 10 (3.1%) having moderate to severe hydronephrosis. The resolution rate for RPD > 7 mm was 60.7% (17) with 11 fetuses (39.3%) requiring long term follow up.

[The features of sclerotic development in junction-ureteral segment of children with congenital hydronephrosis]

A comprehensive clinical, laboratory, instrumental and morphological study of children with congenital hydronephrosis has been carried out. We compared the clinical features of pyelonephritis at children with primary pyelonephritis and congenital hydronephrosis. Bacterial inflammation was dominated symptom at the children with primary bacterial pyelonephritis, whereas children with hydronephrosis had low-grade clinical changes and significant renal functional impairment. Clinically and prognostically more frequent severe unilateral disease was left-side hydronephrosis. For the first time the morphological changes of junction-ureteral segment at the operated children with congenital hydronephrosis have been analyzed. We've established that the evolution of changes correlates with age. Dysplastic and hypoplastic changes take place mainly in muscle layers in younger 3 years old children, in elder children the phenomenon of atrophy and sclerosis dominates over the other pathologic changes. The hystologic picture depends on lateralization of lesions: dysplasia of muscle layers is on the left side, mucous inflammation--on the right.

Molecular pathology of murine ureteritis causing obstructive uropathy with hydronephrosis

Primary causes of urinary tract obstruction that induces urine retention and results in hydronephrosis include uroliths, inflammation, and tumors. In this study, we analyzed the molecular pathology of ureteritis causing hydronephrosis in laboratory rodents.F2 progenies of C57BL/6 and DBA/2 mice were studied histopathologically and by comprehensive gene expression analysis of their ureters. Incidence of hydronephrosis was approximately 5% in F2 progenies. Histopathologically, this hydronephrosis was caused by stenosis of the proximal ureter, which showed fibrosis and papillary malformations of the proliferative epithelium with infiltrations of B-cell-dominated lymphocytes. Additionally, CD16-positive large granular leukocytes and eosinophils infiltrated from the ureteral mucosa to the muscular layer. Eosinophilic crystals were characteristically observed in the lumen of the ureter and the cytoplasm of large granular leukocytes, eosinophils, and transitional epithelial cells. Comprehensive gene profiling revealed remarkably elevated expression of genes associated with hyperimmune responses through activation of B cells in diseased ureters. Furthermore, diseased ureters showed dramatically higher gene expression of chitinase 3-like 3, known as Ym1, which is associated with formation both of adenomas in the transitional epithelium and of eosinophilic crystals in inflammatory conditions. The Ym1 protein was mainly localized to the cytoplasm of the transitional epithelium, infiltrated cells, and eosinophilic crystals in diseased ureters.We determined that the primary cause of hydronephrosis in F2 mice was ureteritis mediated by the local hyperimmune response with malformation of the transitional epithelium. Our data provide a novel molecular pathogenesis for elucidating causes of aseptic inflammation in human upper urinary tracts.

[Correlation of renal AQP1-4 protein expression with renal parenchyma thickness and glomerular filtration rate in children with congenital hydronephrosis]

OBJECTIVE

To study the relationship of renal aquaporin -1, -2, -3, and -4 (AQP1-4) expression with renal parenchymal thickness and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in children with congenital hydronephrotis.

METHODS

Renal tissue samples were obtained from 10 kidneys of 10 children (age: 62.3±18.3 months) with hydronephrosis and who underwent Anderson-Hynes pyeloplasty. Renal control samples were obtained from 6 children (age: 62.7±17.1 months) undergoing nephrectomy for nephroblastoma and were confirmed histologically as normal renal tissues. Renal parenchymal thickness of the hydronephrotic kidneys was measured by ultrasound preoperatively and was verified at operation. Renal GFR was assessed using 99mTc-DTPA scintigraphy preoperatively. Western blot was used to examine the expression of AQP1-4 in the renal tissues. The correlations of renal AQP1-4 expression with the renal parenchymal thickness and GFR were assessed by Pearson correlation analysis.

RESULTS

The expression of AQP1-4 in the hydronephrotis group was markedly reduced compared to that in the control group (P<0.05). The mean renal parenchymal thickness of the hydronephrotic kidney was 4.59±2.25 mm measured by ultrasound preoperatively. The mean GFR of the obstructed kidney was significantly lower than that of the contralateral kidney in the hydronephrosis group (40±12 mL/min vs 105±20 mL/min; P<0.05). The expression of AQP1, 2, 3 and 4 was positively correlated with preoperative renal GFR and renal parenchymal thickness in the hydronephrosis group (P<0.05). Renal parenchymal thickness was positively correlated with renal GFR (P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The expression of renal AQP1-4 is reduced in children with congenital hydronephrosis. The expression levels of AQP1-4 are positively correlated with renal parenchymal thickness and GFR.

Noninvasive assessment of antenatal hydronephrosis in mice reveals a critical role for Robo2 in maintaining anti-reflux mechanism

Antenatal hydronephrosis and vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) are common renal tract birth defects. We recently showed that disruption of the Robo2 gene is associated with VUR in humans and antenatal hydronephrosis in knockout mice. However, the natural history, causal relationship and developmental origins of these clinical conditions remain largely unclear. Although the hydronephrosis phenotype in Robo2 knockout mice has been attributed to the coexistence of ureteral reflux and obstruction in the same mice, this hypothesis has not been tested experimentally. Here we used noninvasive high-resolution micro-ultrasonography and pathological analysis to follow the progression of antenatal hydronephrosis in individual Robo2-deficient mice from embryo to adulthood. We found that hydronephrosis progressed continuously after birth with no spontaneous resolution. With the use of a microbubble ultrasound contrast agent and ultrasound-guided percutaneous aspiration, we demonstrated that antenatal hydronephrosis in Robo2-deficient mice is caused by high-grade VUR resulting from a dilated and incompetent ureterovesical junction rather than ureteral obstruction. We further documented Robo2 expression around the developing ureterovesical junction and identified early dilatation of ureteral orifice structures as a potential fetal origin of antenatal hydronephrosis and VUR. Our results thus demonstrate that Robo2 is crucial for the formation of a normal ureteral orifice and for the maintenance of an effective anti-reflux mechanism. This study also establishes a reproducible genetic mouse model of progressive antenatal hydronephrosis and primary high-grade VUR.

Preoperative hydronephrosis grade independently predicts worse pathological outcomes in patients undergoing nephroureterectomy for upper tract urothelial carcinoma

PURPOSE

We analyzed the prognostic impact of hydronephrosis grade on disease specific survival and evaluated whether hydronephrosis grade could preoperatively predict worse pathological outcomes in cases of upper tract urothelial carcinoma treated surgically.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We identified and retrospectively reviewed the records of 91 patients who were evaluated by multidetector computerized tomography and/or magnetic resonance imaging preoperatively, and treated with nephroureterectomy at our institution from 2000 to 2009. Ipsilateral hydronephrosis was graded 0 to 4 by 2 urological radiologists blinded to clinical outcomes. We analyzed the associations between hydronephrosis grade, and pathological findings and patient outcomes.

RESULTS

Preoperatively 67 patients (73.6%) had ipsilateral hydronephrosis. Grade was 1 to 4 in 3 (3.3%), 17 (18.7%), 23 (25.3%) and 24 cases (26.4%), respectively. Higher hydronephrosis grade was significantly associated with a ureteral tumor (p = 0.0307), higher pT stage (p = 0.0002) and lymphovascular invasion (p = 0.0014). Higher hydronephrosis grade was not associated with disease specific or metastasis-free survival. On preoperative multivariate analysis high hydronephrosis grade predicted pathological T stage (T3 or greater) (HR 4.98, p = 0.0228), positive lymphovascular invasion (HR 6.37, p = 0.0022) and grade 3 (HR 2.98, p = 0.0311).

CONCLUSIONS

On image analysis preoperative hydronephrosis grade was associated with features of aggressive disease and predicted an advanced pathological outcome in patients with upper tract urothelial carcinoma. This information could prove useful to select candidates for neoadjuvant chemotherapy and make decisions concerning surgical options.

[Coupling between the hemodynamic parameters and the morphological changes in the kidney in children with congenital hydronephrosis]

The data of renal ultrasonographic and Doppler studies were comparatively assessed in children with congenital hydronephrosis. The degree of renal B-mode ultrasound hemodynamic parameters was used as the basis for grouping of the children. The resistance index (RI) of all branches of renal arteries receives attention. Morphological studies were carried out on renal biopsy specimens from 29 children from different groups and on 12 removed kidneys; the expression of TGF beta1 and alphaSMA was revealed using the streptavidin-biotin-peroxidase method. Morphological changes as hypoplasia or dysplasia became more pronounced from Group 1 to Group 3, RI increasing to peak in Group 3. Vascular changes were confined to compensatory processes following the pattern of remodeling that was manifested by vascular wall thickening and a gradual increase in RI. Failing compensatory processes resulted in the development of renal functional and hormonal decompensation and in the elevation of RI. There was a coupling between the magnitude of morphological changes and RI increases. A set of the findings emphasizes the undoubtedly important role of renal ultrasound study that makes it possible to judge the state of the vascular bed and to suggest renal structural problems in congenital hydronephrosis.

Etio-pathogenic and morphological correlations in congenital hydronephrosis

Hydronephrosis, "distension in varying degrees of pelvis and calyces, accompanied by progressive atrophy of renal parenchyma due to obstruction in urinary flow", is an apparently simple reno-urinary disease, but, in reality, by association of its own characters with those conferred by causative lesions, becomes of a significant complexity. The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the plurivalent character of this entity on a batch of cases with congenital hydronephrosis, by identification of lesional features correlated with cause of disease. The etiology of hydronephrosis in analyzed cases was characterized by heterogeneity: polar inferior artery, horseshoe kidney, extrarenal pelvis, transverse valves of pelviureteral junction (PUJ), adhesion of ureter to PUJ, intrinsic stenosis of PUJ, vesico-ureteral reflux, posterior urethral valves, stenosis of urethral meatus. The way of intervention of urinary obstruction and the uni- or bilateral character of damage were definitory for the macroscopical appearance of the hydronephrotic kidney, renal pelvis demonstrating its role of expansion room for kidney protection. In analyzed cases of congenital hydronephrosis, correlation specific cause-pelvic lesion evidenced histopathological differences related to etiology. Anatomical preparations obtained by injection followed by corrosion have revealed that renal vessels appear elongated, distanced from each other and even reduced in density, which explains the appearance of ischemia accompanying pathogenetic changes of obstructive uropathy. Regardless of etiology, all cases of congenital hydronephrosis were characterized by varying degrees of fibrosis in chorion of renal pelvis, accompanied by active chronic inflammation, observation that support the idea of connection between the two pathological changes.

Pathogenesis of renal injury in the megabladder mouse: a genetic model of congenital obstructive nephropathy

Congenital obstructive nephropathy (CON) is the most common cause of chronic renal failure in children often leading to end-stage renal disease. The megabladder (mgb) mouse exhibits signs of urinary tract obstruction in utero resulting in the development of hydroureteronephrosis and progressive renal failure after birth. This study examined the development of progressive renal injury in homozygous mgb mice (mgb-/-). Renal ultrasound was used to stratify the disease state of mgb-/- mice, whereas surgical rescue was performed using vesicostomy. The progression of renal injury was characterized using a series of pathogenic markers including alpha smooth muscle isoactin (α-SMA), TGF-β1, connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), E-cadherin, F4/80, Wilm's tumor (WT)-1, and paired box gene (Pax) 2. This analysis indicated that mgb-/- mice are born with pathologic changes in kidney development that progressively worsen in direct correlation with the severity of hydronephrosis. The initiation and pattern of fibrotic development observed in mgb-/- kidneys appeared distinctive from previous animal models of obstruction. These observations suggest that the mgb mouse represents a unique small animal model for the study of CON.

Nonobstructive dilation of urinary tract and later development of obstruction: report of one case

Cases of nonobstructive dilation of the upper urinary tract subsequently becoming obstructive are rare. We report a case involving a male child approximately 2.5 years old (29 months) who presented with an obstruction of the ureterovesical junction, which had been diagnosed and treated for nonobstructive dilation at another hospital 15 months earlier. At our hospital, we found no ureteral orifice by cystoscopic examination. Exploratory surgery was performed and complete obstruction of the ureterovesical junction was observed. We resected the segment involved in the obstruction and performed an ureteroneocystostomy. Patients found to have nonobstructive dilation of the urinary tract, a common and often innocuous finding, need careful follow-up to ensure that obstructions that may develop later can be treated in a timely manner.

[Comparative analysis of the role of individual peculiarities of kidney structure in predisposition to the nephrotoxicity of gentamicin in intact and hydronephrotic rabbits]

Comparative analysis of relationships between individual peculiarities of the structure of nephrons in intact and hydronephrotic right rabbit kidneys, on one hand, and the degree of expression of nephrotoxicity of gentamicin with respect to the only intact and as well hydronephrotic left kidney, on the other hand, was undertaken. Damage of the kidney by this antibiotic is more expressed in rabbits with smaller diameter of distal convoluted tubules of nephrons and smaller size of the cells lining their lumen. These peculiarities of the structure of nephrons lead to predisposition to the gentamicin-induced nephropathy in intact rabbits to a higher degree than in animals with hydronephrosis. The method of predicting individual predisposition to gentamicin-induced nephropathy has been patented (No. 7722 of 13.10.2005).

Molecular biology and nuclear medicine in pediatric hydronephrosis

Pediatric hydronephrosis may correspond to very different clinical situations, ranging from fully benign reversible dilatation to severe obstructive nephropathy. The genetic research is difficult, mainly because the condition is probably polygenic and the embryology of the urinary system is very complex and depends on a multifaceted interaction of genetic and environmental factors. Molecular biology has gained new insights in the complicated urinary system and in the mechanisms of obstructive nephropathy. Some mediators (tumor growth factor, tumor necrosis factor, renin angiotensin system, etc.) could be considered molecular markers of obstruction and it has been proposed to introduce them in clinical decision making, in order to make an accurate selection of patients needing surgical correction. Scintigraphy has been a standard procedure in the management of pediatric hydronephrosis for decades and has been used in many clinical studies designed to evaluate the role of selected molecular markers in clinical settings. The relationships between scintigraphic parameters and molecular mediators seems promising, in particular for the evaluation of the Reanin Angiotensin System, which plays many roles in the natural history of pediatric hydronephrosis. Angiotensin up-regulation is a turning point in many pediatric hydronephrosis and can be unveiled by captopril scintigraphy, which allows a timely diagnosis of obstruction, before irreversible parenchymal injury and loss of renal function.

High-grade hydronephrosis predicts poor outcomes after radical cystectomy in patients with bladder cancer

We examined whether the presence and severity of preoperative hydronephrosis have prognostic significance in patients who underwent radical cystectomy for transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder. The medical records of 457 patients who underwent radical cystectomy for bladder cancer between 1986 and 2005 were retrospectively reviewed. Following the Society for Fetal Urology grading system, patients were divided into low-, and high-grade hydronephrosis groups. Clinicopathologic factors associated with preoperative hydronephrosis and survival were evaluated. Of a total of 406 patients, unilateral hydronephrosis was found in 74 (18.2%), bilateral hydronephrosis in 11 (2.7%), and no hydronephoris in 321 (79.1%). Low-grade hydronephrosis was found in 57 (12.2%) patients and high-grade hydronephrosis in 28 (6%). Preoperative hydronephrosis was related to higher pT stage and lymph node invasion. In univariate analysis, the presence of hydronephrosis, hydronephrosis grade, age, pT and pN stage, tumor grade, surgical margin, number of retrieved nodes, carcinoma in situ, and lymphovascular invasion were significant prognostic factors for cancer-specific survival. In multivariate analysis, bilateral hydronephrosis and high-grade hydronephrosis remained significant predictors for decreased survival. The presence of preoperative hydronephrosis, and high-grade hydronephrosis are significant prognostic factors in patients with bladder cancer after radical cystectomy.