Posterior urethral valve (PUV) is the most common anatomical cause of bladder outlet obstruction with an incidence ranging from 1/3000 to 1/8000 births. In spite of early valve ablation deterioration of renal function is frequently reported during childhood and adolescence.
Aim of the study: To evaluate the frequency and progression of chronic renal disease in boys born with PUV.
Materials and methods: The presence of chronic renal disease (CRD) in 58 boys with posterior urethral valve (PUV) was assessed by renal ultrasound and estimation of glomerular filtration rate (GFR). GFR was estimated by the method of Schwartz. Chronic renal disease was defined according to NFK K/DOQI Guidelines and classified into 5 stages.
Results: 48 (82%) patients with PUV had CRD. Among the patients observed from birth 89% already demonstrated CRD in the first year of life.
Conclusions: 1. The vast majority of boys with PUV (83%) demonstrate symptoms of chronic renal disease. 2. CRD in boys with PUV is frequently evident from the first year of life. 3. PUV patients require regular nephrologic assessment from birth.