What is vesicoureteral reflux?

Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is the backward flow of urine inside the body. Urine is made by the kidneys and is supposed to flow to the bladder through the ureters and then leave the body. But when it flows backward, from the bladder to the kidneys, it can cause bacteria to reach your baby's kidneys. This could cause an infection or scarring.

VUR may be a congenital problem. This means your baby was born with it. VUR ranges from mild to severe. Mild cases often need no treatment.

Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) doesn't cause any symptoms or pain. But it can result in kidney damage if a child who has VUR gets a urinary tract infection.

A urinary tract infection (UTI) can be a symptom of VUR. Symptoms of a UTI may include fever, pain or burning with urination, frequent urination, and the feeling that the bladder does not empty completely. Fever may be the only symptom of a UTI in a small child. So a urinary tract infection should be suspected in any child who has a high fever without an obvious cause.

Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is usually diagnosed with a test called a voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG).

VUR may be suspected before a child is born from the results of a prenatal ultrasound. Or VUR may be suspected in a young child who's had several urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Your doctor will ask about the history of your child's symptoms and do a physical exam.

The following tests may be recommended:

• A urine culture. This checks for a UTI.
• Ultrasound of the kidneys. This test uses sound waves to find out the size and shape of the kidneys. It can't detect reflux.
• Voiding cystourethrogram. This test can detect VUR and help find out if it's mild or severe. X-ray pictures are taken of the urinary tract.

VUR can be passed down from parent to child (inherited). If one of your children has VUR, you may want to ask your doctor if your other children need to be checked.

Many children don't need treatment for VUR. The ureters grow as a child gets older. Mild cases of VUR often go away by the time a child is 5 years old.

With VUR, urinary tract infections (UTIs) are more likely. If your baby gets a UTI, your baby will likely be prescribed antibiotics. Antibiotics may also be given to prevent UTIs.

Severe cases of VUR may need surgery.

Follow any instructions your doctor gives you, and go to all follow-up appointments. Make sure your child drinks enough water and avoids constipation. Encourage your child to urinate often throughout the day. Watch for signs of a problem, and call the doctor if your child is having symptoms, such as a fever.