Hydronephrosis
Chapter: 17
Dilation of the ureter, renal pelvis, and calices is usually observed in association with reflux, sometimes to an extreme degree. In males, because they have a relatively long segment of sterile urethra, such changes are often seen in the absence of infection. Sterile reflux is less damaging than infected. Secondary back pressure resulting from reflux or obstruction leading to dilation of the ureter and renal pelvis. With progression this leads to hydronephrotic atrophy of the renal papilla and parenchyma.
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