Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
hydronephrosis
Pronunciation: HYE-droh-nef-ROH-sis
Swelling of kidney due to urine backup caused by obstruction of urinary flow.
Full Definition
Hydronephrosis refers to the dilation of the renal pelvis and calyces secondary to obstruction of urine outflow. The condition can be acute or chronic, unilateral or bilateral, and may result from various causes including urinary stones, tumors, strictures, or congenital abnormalities. Severity is typically graded as mild, moderate, or severe based on imaging findings. Prolonged hydronephrosis can lead to permanent kidney damage if left untreated.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from hydroureter (ureteral dilation) and nephritis (kidney inflammation).
In Context
- "CT imaging demonstrated moderate hydronephrosis of the right kidney with delayed nephrogram." — Radiology report
- "The patient presented with severe bilateral hydronephrosis secondary to bladder outlet obstruction." — Emergency department note
Also known as
renal pelvic dilation
Don't confuse with
hydroureter
nephritis