This study, conducted at a tertiary care center, investigated the clinical presentation and characteristics of children diagnosed with posterior urethral valve (PUV), a congenital bladder outlet obstruction affecting boys. Here are the key takeaways:
Clinical Presentation:
- Common symptoms: Poor urinary stream (83%), fever (73%), signs of urinary tract infection (UTI) (97%), pallor (73%), and acute kidney injury (37%).
- Less frequent symptoms: Urinary retention (13%) and palpable bladder (13%).
Diagnostic Findings:
- Ultrasonography: 80% showed bilateral hydronephrosis/hydroureter, indicating kidney and ureteral swelling.
- Micturating cystourethrogram: 87% revealed vesicoureteral reflux, where urine flows back from the bladder to the ureters and potentially kidneys.
Management:
- All patients received intravenous hydration, urinary decompression, and antibiotics.
- Meropenem was the most commonly used antibiotic.
Overall Significance:
- PUV presents with diverse symptoms suggestive of UTI and kidney problems.
- Early diagnosis and management are crucial to prevent complications like chronic kidney disease.
- The study highlights the importance of comprehensive diagnostic investigation and prompt intervention in PUV cases.