On 22/6, Doctor Mai Van Luc from the Department of Urology and Andrology at E Hospital Hanoi, reported on a patient who presented with severe back pain radiating to the bladder, blood in her urine, and reduced urine output. A CT scan revealed her left kidney was experiencing stage 4 hydronephrosis, with the renal parenchyma thinned significantly, indicating almost complete loss of function.
The patient disclosed that over one year prior, she had experienced back pain, and a private clinic doctor had identified a kidney cyst, recommending follow-up. However, she did not return for subsequent examinations and only sought hospital care when the pain became severe.
Doctors diagnosed the patient with a ureteral stricture at the point where it enters the bladder, an obstruction preventing urine flow from the kidney. Had the condition been detected early, the patient could have undergone ureteral reimplantation surgery to preserve the kidney. However, due to the late diagnosis, the kidney had reached end-stage hydronephrosis and lost its function. Consequently, a laparoscopic nephrectomy was performed to remove the damaged kidney, mitigating risks of infection and other subsequent complications.
The ureter is a crucial component of the urinary system, measuring approximately 25-30 cm in adults. When the ureter narrows, urine can accumulate in the kidney, potentially causing renal colic, hydronephrosis, urinary stones, urinary tract infections, and even kidney failure.
Symptoms of ureteral stricture vary depending on the location and severity of the obstruction. Patients may experience back pain, difficulty urinating, changes in urine output, blood in the urine, high blood pressure, or recurrent urinary tract infections.
According to Doctor Luc, most cases of ureteral stricture can be treated effectively if detected early. Conversely, a delayed diagnosis increases the risk of kidney atrophy, pyonephrosis, urinary tract infections, ureteral stones, kidney stones, and the progressive loss of kidney function. Therefore, individuals should pay close attention to any unusual bodily signs and seek prompt medical examination for timely diagnosis and treatment.
Thuy Quynh
