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Dear Janeta,
Hydronephrosis and hydroureter are terminologies with literal meanings of water on the kidney and water in the ureter respectively.
Hydro is a Greek word which means water and nephros in Greek again, means kidney. As a medical term hydronephrosis implies swelling and distention of the collecting system of the kidney. This is usually due to an obstruction(“blockage”) down stream from the collecting system, impairing the flow of urine out of that collecting system, thereby leading to the swelling. This can lead to infection and deterioration of the kidney function overtime, if not relieved.
Hydroureter is also a combination word as above implying distention and swelling of the ureter. The Ureter is the tube that connects the kidney to the bladder allowing for passage of the urine from the kidney down . Once the urine is in the bladder it is expelled as usual by the individual. If there is an obstruction anywhere in the course of the ureter, it again will lead to impaired flow of the urine, thus leading to back up and subsequent swelling of both the ureter and the kidney. This can cause the same problem with possible infection and compromise of kidney function, if not taken care of.
After the surgical correction of this “blockage” the degree of hydronephrosis and hydroureter will gradually improve, and most patients do well in the long run, depending on thje underlying cause for the obstruction. I wish the best for your daughter.
Both hydronephrosis and hydroureter may be caused by urinary reflux(urine backing up from the bladder into the ureter and kidney). But from what you have said, this does not appear to be the case for your daughter. This condition can also be corrected surgically with good results.
This information is provided for general medical education purposes only. Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options pertaining to your specific medical condition. More individualized care is available at the Henry Ford Hospital and its urban campuses by calling (1 800 653 6568).
Sincerely;
HFHS-M.D. BE
* Keyword: hydronephrosis and hydroureter
