Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is the backward flow of urine. The urine flows from the bladder back into the kidneys.
Urine normally flows out from the kidneys. It passes through tubes called ureters. It then flows into the bladder. Each ureter connects to the bladder in a way that prevents urine from flowing back up the ureter. This connection is similar to a one-way valve. When this does not work properly, or if the ureters do not extend far enough into the bladder, urine may flow back up to the kidney. If the urine contains bacteria, the kidney may become infected. The back-up can also put extra pressure on the kidney. This can cause kidney damage.
This is a potentially serious condition. It requires care from a doctor. Early treatment and prevention of infections can lead to better outcomes.
Common causes of VUR include:
VUR is more common in Caucasians. Other factors that may increase your child’s chance of developing VUR include:
Your child may not have any symptoms. In some cases, VUR is found after a urinary tract or kidney infection is diagnosed. Symptoms of urinary tract infections include:
You will be asked about your child’s symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Tests may include:
Your child's condition will be graded. The grading scale ranges from 1 (mild) to 5 (severe).
The goal for treatment of VUR is to prevent any permanent kidney damage. Treatment options include:
Treatment may not be needed for grades 1-3. Higher grades may require treatment.
VUR may go away on its own as the ureters develop. Your child's condition will be monitored. This may include:
Children are advised to stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. They should also empty their bladders frequently.
In most cases, surgery is not needed. If your child does need surgery, the options include:
VUR cannot be prevented in most cases. Avoid complications by getting prompt treatment. If you suspect a urinary tract or kidney infection, call your child's doctor.
National Kidney Foundation
Urology Care Foundation
HealthLinkBC
The Kidney Foundation of Canada
Valla JS, Steyaert H, et al. Transvesicoscopic Cohen ureteric reimplantation for vesicoureteral reflux in children: A single-centre 5-year experience. J Pediatr Urol. 2009;5(6):466-471.
Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR). Cincinnati Children’s website. Available at: http://www.cincinnatichildrens.org/health/info/urinary/diagnose/vesicoureteral-reflux.htm. Updated May 2015. Accessed March 20, 2018.
Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) in children. Boston Children’s Hospital website. Available at: http://www.childrenshospital.org/health-topics/conditions/vesicoureteral-reflux-vur. Accessed March 20, 2018.
Vesicoureteral reflux. EBSCO DynaMed Plus website. Available at: http://www.dynamed.com/topics/dmp~AN~T116455/Ve...oureteral-reflux. Updated October 2, 2017. Accessed March 20, 2018.
4/1/2014 DynaMed Plus Systematic Literature Surveillance http://www.dynamed.com/topics/dmp~AN~T905359/Choosing-Wisely: Choosing wisely. EBSCO DynaMed Plus website. Available at: http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed. Updated July 23, 2015. Accessed March 20, 2018.
Last reviewed March 2018 by EBSCO Medical Review Board Kari Kassir, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.