All Conditions

Pediatric megaureter

A megaureter is a ureter that is much wider than normal (wider than 10mm).

Overview

What is a pediatric megaureter?

Ureters are the tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder. A megaureter may not drain urine normally causing the urine to back up into a child's kidneys. This can cause urinary tract infections (UTI) and lead to kidney damage if untreated.

Signs and Symptoms

What are the signs and symptoms of a pediatric megaureter?

Diagnosis

How is a pediatric megaureter diagnosed?

  • Blood test

  • X-Rays

    • Intravenous pyelogram (IVP)

    • Ultrasound

    • Voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG)

Treatment

How is a pediatric megaureter treated?

Treatment will depend on your child's symptoms. In some cases the megaureter will correct itself. Other treatments include:

  • Antibiotics for UTI

  • Surgery to remove the abnormal portion