Timely Identification and Effective Management Essential for Infants with Kidney Abnormalities: Specialists
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Experts highlight that early detection and effective management are crucial for infants born with antenatal hydronephrosis, a congenital kidney defect. Increased awareness can lead to successful outcomes, including normal kidney function.
Key Takeaways
- Early detection of antenatal hydronephrosis is critical.
- Most infants can achieve normal kidney function with proper care.
- Routine ultrasounds help in identifying this condition early.
- Some cases resolve naturally, while others may need medical intervention.
- Raising awareness can lead to positive outcomes for affected families.
New Delhi, April 9 (NationPress) Timely identification and effective management are vital for infants diagnosed with a congenital anomaly known as antenatal hydronephrosis — a condition characterized by the swelling of kidneys due to fluid accumulation in the womb — according to specialists who stress the importance of enhancing public awareness.
Antenatal hydronephrosis is frequently encountered, with an occurrence rate of one to two cases per 100 pregnancies. This condition manifests when a fetus experiences swelling in one or both kidneys resulting from urine retention.
Even though the initial diagnosis may induce concern, healthcare professionals assert that this condition is usually manageable with appropriate supervision and care.
“With suitable follow-up and attention, most infants with antenatal hydronephrosis can grow up healthy with normal kidney function,” stated Dr. Prabudh Goel, Associate Professor of Pediatric Surgery at AIIMS-Delhi.
This condition is typically detected during standard ultrasound examinations conducted during the second or third trimester of pregnancy. It arises due to a partial obstruction in the urinary tract or urine reflux back into the kidneys.
While some instances resolve spontaneously before or after birth, others may necessitate medical action to avert complications, including urinary tract infections or kidney impairment.
Dr. Shandip Kumar Sinha, Director of Pediatric Surgery at a local hospital, noted that the increasing number of antenatal scans is leading to a higher detection rate of antenatal hydronephrosis.
“If antenatal hydronephrosis is identified and appropriate medical action is taken within the first five to six months after birth, the kidneys can fully recuperate,” Sinha added.
“Early identification allows us to vigilantly monitor the condition and implement essential measures to safeguard the baby’s health and kidney function,” he further explained.
In mild instances, antenatal hydronephrosis often resolves naturally without the need for treatment. For moderate to severe cases, additional tests such as ultrasound, voiding cystourethrograms, or nuclear medicine scans may be required after birth to evaluate the extent of obstruction or reflux.
In rare circumstances, surgical intervention may be necessary to address underlying issues.
“By enhancing awareness regarding this condition, we hope to provide reassurance to families that timely identification and effective management can yield favorable outcomes,” Goel concluded.
