Intermediate
Technical
IVT
renal scarring
Permanent kidney damage resulting from infection, reflux, or other inflammatory processes, often detected on imaging studies.
Full Definition
Renal scarring represents permanent parenchymal damage to the kidneys, typically resulting from pyelonephritis, vesicoureteral reflux, or other inflammatory conditions. In pediatric patients, renal scarring is a significant concern as it can lead to hypertension, proteinuria, and chronic kidney disease in adulthood. DMSA scans are the gold standard for detecting renal scars, which appear as areas of reduced uptake or cortical thinning.
Usage
Usage note: Often permanent and may have long-term implications.
In Context
- "Follow-up DMSA scan revealed new renal scarring in the upper pole of the left kidney." — Radiology report
- "Prevention of renal scarring is the primary goal in managing pediatric urinary tract infections." — Clinical guideline
Also known as
renal cortical scarring
nephrosclerosis
Contrasted with
normal renal parenchyma
Don't confuse with
acute pyelonephritis
renal dysplasia