DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

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Urologic Condition

Ureteropelvic Junction (UPJ) Obstruction

MODERATE

Blockage at the point where the renal pelvis meets the ureter, preventing urine from draining properly from the kidney. Can be congenital or acquired. May cause hydronephrosis and kidney damage if untreated.

Global Affected

400.0K

Countries

15

Symptoms

Flank pain
Nausea and vomiting
Urinary tract infections
Hematuria
Kidney stones
Abdominal mass (in infants)

Treatment Options

Pyeloplasty
Endopyelotomy
Laparoscopic pyeloplasty
Robotic pyeloplasty
Nephrectomy (severe cases)
Observation (mild cases)

Risk Factors

1Congenital anomalies
2Kidney stones
3Previous surgery
4Scar tissue
5Crossing blood vessels

Diagnostic Methods

  • 1Ultrasound
  • 2CT urogram
  • 3MAG3 renal scan
  • 4IVP (intravenous pyelogram)
  • 5Retrograde pyelogram
  • 6Nuclear medicine scan

Prognosis

Excellent with surgical correction. Pyeloplasty success rate 90-95% with significant improvement in drainage. Kidney function preserved in most cases. Long-term follow-up important to monitor for recurrence. Untreated obstruction can lead to progressive kidney damage and loss of function.

Prevention

  • Cannot prevent congenital cases
  • Prompt treatment of kidney stones
  • Regular follow-up after surgery

Research Status

Pyeloplasty (surgical repair) is definitive treatment with 90-95% success rate. Endopyelotomy (minimally invasive) for selected patients. Laparoscopic and robotic approaches common. Serial monitoring for mild cases.

Affected Countries

United StatesUnited KingdomCanadaAustraliaGermanyFranceItalySpainJapanBrazilMexicoIndiaChinaNigeriaSouth Africa

Sources

  • https://www.kidney.org
  • https://www.mayoclinic.org
  • https://www.hematology.org/education/patients
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
  • https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.