Kidney CT Appearances

Hydronephrosis CT Findings

• Dilation of renal pelvis and collecting system
• Depending on site of obstruction the ureter may be dilated
• With long standing hydronephrosis the thickness of the renal cortex is decreased

Other Information About Hydronephrosis

Etiology:

• Kidney stones
• Ureteral obstruction
• Nearby tumors
• Trauma
• Pregnancy

Epidemiology:

• Can occur at any age
• More common in males

Presentation:

• Abdominal and/or back pain
• Nausea
• Dysuria
• Hematuria
• Changes in urination habits

Prognosis:

• Hydronephrosis must be addressed or it can get worse
• Underlying cause must be treated