Urodynamics in boys after prenatally diagnosed vesicoureteric reflux.

Over the years, several theories have been presented regarding the pathogenesis of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) in children without neurological disease or posterior urethral valves. Primary VUR is one of many fetal uropathies detectable by prenatal sonography. Thirteen boys with a prenatal diagnosis of hydronephrosis and postnatally demonstrated VUR had a urodynamic evaluation carried out at the age of 1 to 26 weeks. The renal function was evaluated by renography and estimation of glomerular filtration rate. Maximum detrusor pressure at voiding was significantly higher in the group of patients with VUR and impaired renal function compared to: (1) reflux patients with bilateral normal renal function; and (2) "normal" controls. Patients with normal bilateral renal and bladder function had a low risk of urinary tract infection during the period of follow-up (1 to 6 years). Early urodynamic studies in infants with VUR are important in order to clarify the pathogenesis of reflux and plan treatment strategy.