Investigating the Abnormal Presentation of Ureteropelvic Junction Obstruction in Adolescence: A Case Report Ureteropelvic Junction Obstruction in Adolescence
Journal of Pediatric Nephrology,
Vol. 11 No. 4 (2023),
5 February 2025
https://doi.org/10.22037/jpn.v11i4.45077
Abstract
Background and Aim: Ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) is a common cause of
hydronephrosis and is typically diagnosed antenatally. About 70% of these cases will selfresolve;
however, symptomatic children may present with abdominal pain (i.e. Dietl crisis),
vomiting, rash, or fever.
Case Presentation: A 14-year-old male patient presented with cyclical vomiting every two
months for the past two years. The patient’s mother also described an eight-year history
of headaches and intermittent abdominal pain. A renal magnetic resonance urography
scan revealed decreased right kidney function and delayed cortex to ureter transit time. A
pyeloplasty and stent placement were performed to correct the obstructing vessel.
Conclusion: Clinical guidelines for abdominal pain and cyclical vomiting earlier in the
patients’ healthcare may have led to an appropriate workup and treatment years before. We
recommend physicians consider UPJO as a differential diagnosis in adolescent patients with
cyclical vomiting and abdominal pain and consult the North American Society for Pediatric
Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition (NASPGHN) guidelines to better guide the
diagnosis.
- Hydronephrosis
- Cyclical vomiting
- UPJO
- Dietl crisis
How to Cite
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