vesicoureteral reflux
Definition
Noun: A medical condition characterized by the abnormal backward flow of urine from the urinary bladder into one or both ureters (the tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder).
Usage
This term is used specifically in medical contexts to describe a diagnosed dysfunction of the urinary system. * Primary vesicoureteral reflux is often caused by a congenital defect in the valve where the ureter joins the bladder. * Secondary vesicoureteral reflux can be caused by a blockage or high pressure in the bladder. * The condition is often abbreviated as VUR in medical notes.
Examples
- The ultrasound was performed to check for vesicoureteral reflux after the child's recurrent kidney infections.
- A voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) is a common test used to diagnose vesicoureteral reflux.
- The doctor explained that the vesicoureteral reflux was allowing bacteria to travel up to the kidneys.
Advanced Usage
- Grading of vesicoureteral reflux: The severity of the condition is often classified on a scale from Grade I (mild) to Grade V (severe), based on the extent of the backflow and dilation of the ureter and renal pelvis seen on imaging.
Variants and Related Words
- Vesicoureteric reflux: An alternative spelling, more commonly used in British English.
- VUR: The standard medical abbreviation.
- Reflux (in this context): The backward flow itself. (Note: "Reflux" alone can refer to other backward flows, such as gastroesophageal reflux).
- Ureterovesical reflux: A less common synonym.
Synonyms
- Urinary reflux (a more general term that can also refer to other types of backward urine flow).
- Ureteral reflux.
Antonyms / Contrasting Terms
- Antegrade urine flow: The normal, forward flow of urine from the kidneys, through the ureters, and into the bladder.
Noun
-
a backflow of urine from the bladder into the ureter
