The ureters enter the bladder at an angle,forming a tunnel which acts as a valve mechanism. If the tunnel through the bladder wall is too short, reflux of urine occurs. As your child grows, the length of the tunnel will grow. Most of the time this growth solves the reflux problem.
Is reflux serious?
Most urinary tract infections stay in the bladder. With reflux, however, bacteria can get into the kidneys and cause a kidney infection called pyelonephritis. This can cause damage to the kidneys which is very serious.
Reflux is graded on a scale of one through five. Grade I flows part way up the ureter. Grades II through V flow all the way up the ureter and into the kidney. With higher grades the shape of the ureter changes.
What tests will my child have?
Your doctor will determine if one or more of the following tests need to be done to determine your child's grade of reflux. This sheet briefly explains each test. More information is available if a test is scheduled. Depending on their age, brothers and sisters of children with vesicoureteral reflux may have an increased risk for reflux. Your doctor will decide if the siblings need any tests.
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