Fetal urinary tract dilation: What to tell the parents

Prenat Diagn. 2024 Feb;44(2):148-157. doi: 10.1002/pd.6497. Epub 2023 Dec 20.

Abstract

Urinary tract dilation (UTD), which refers to the abnormal dilation of the urinary collection system, is the most common finding on prenatal ultrasound and presents with varying severity, presentation, etiology, and prognosis. Prenatal classification and risk stratification aim to prevent postnatal complications, such as urinary tract infections and further kidney dysfunction. Parents expecting a child with UTD should be counseled by a multidisciplinary team consisting of maternal-fetal medicine specialists, and pediatric urology and nephrology providers. This review summarizes the key points in the diagnostic evaluation and management during the prenatal and initial postnatal period, focusing on the information that should be provided to future parents. We address frequently asked parental questions and concerns that our multidisciplinary clinical practice faces.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Dilatation / adverse effects
  • Dilatation, Pathologic
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hydronephrosis*
  • Parents
  • Pregnancy
  • Ultrasonography, Prenatal
  • Urinary Tract Infections* / etiology
  • Urinary Tract* / diagnostic imaging