Intravenous urography versus ultrasonography in evaluation of women with recurrent urinary tract infection.

Intravenous urography and ultrasonography were compared prospectively in 120 women with recurrent urinary tract infection. The median age was 44 years (range 15-85). There was good correlation between the two methods in detecting hydronephrosis, calculi greater than or equal to 5 mm, and major post-pyelonephritic scarring. Urography was superior in detecting small cortical scars, slight caliceal dilatation, and less than or equal to 4 mm calculi. Based on the good results, low cost, and absence of radiation hazards or contrast media reactions, we conclude that ultrasonography may replace urography when a radiological screening of the upper urinary tract is deemed necessary in women with recurrent urinary tract infection.