Definition

Noun: A pyelogram is a diagnostic X-ray image of the kidneys and the ureters (the tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder). It is used to examine the structure and function of these parts of the urinary system.

Usage

A pyelogram is a specific type of medical image ordered by a doctor. It is typically used as a direct object in a sentence. * The urologist reviewed the pyelogram to check for kidney stones. * A contrast agent is often used to obtain a clear pyelogram.

Examples

• The patient underwent an intravenous pyelogram to diagnose the cause of her flank pain.
• The pyelogram revealed a blockage in the left ureter.
• Comparing the old and new pyelograms showed the progression of the disease.

Advanced Usage

The term is most commonly found in its compound forms, which specify the method used to create the image. These are listed under 'Variants and Related Words'.

Variants and Related Words

• Intravenous pyelogram (IVP): A pyelogram where the contrast dye is injected into a vein.
• Retrograde pyelogram: A pyelogram where the contrast dye is introduced directly into the ureters through a catheter.

Synonyms

• Renogram (specifically refers to an image showing kidney function, often from a nuclear medicine scan, but can be used in similar contexts).
• Urogram (a broader term for an X-ray of the entire urinary tract, which includes the pyelogram's area of focus).

Noun

1. an X ray of the kidneys and ureters