Evaluation of Renal Function and Scars in Children With Primary Vesicoureteral Reflux

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate growth, glomerular and tubular function, renal damage, scars in children affected by primary VUR.

Methods: We retrospectively evaluated the clinical records of our Unit from January 2006 to September 2020. For each patient we evaluated growth, laboratoristic and scintigraphic glomerular and tubular function, renal damage and collective system urodynamics at baseline and at the last visit.

Results: We enrolled 41 patients affected by primary VUR and treated with continuous antibiotic prophylaxis. Glomerular function and urodynamics did not change over time. EFNa directly correlated with weight (r 0.44 P .004) and TRP inversely correlated with severity of reflux (r -0.32, P .04). Female sex was associated to nephrolithiasis (OR 17.0, P .02) and proteinuria (at T0 OR 5.8 P .03 at T1 OR 5.8, P .03). Daily proteinuria increased with age (r 0.66, P <.0001 at T0 and r 0.44 P .004 at T1) while protein-to-creatinine ratio decreased. Renal scars at T0 inversely correlated with glomerular and tubular function at T1 but they did not correlate with severity or laterality of reflux.

Conclusion: Even if renal function remains stable through years, it is critical to identify the subjects with significant congenital renal damage.