Ureterovesical junction obstruction (UVJ) in children

What is a ureterovesical junction obstruction (UVJ) in children?

The ureterovesical junction is located where the ureter (tube that drains urine from the kidney to the bladder) meets the bladder.

Ureterovesical junction (UVJ) obstruction means that there is blockage in this area. Therefore, urine backs up into the ureters and into the kidneys – known as hydronephrosis – and causes swelling and associated problems.

What are the signs and symptoms of a ureterovesical junction obstruction (UVJ) in children?

• Abdominal pain

• Back pain

• Blood in urine

• Fever

• Nausea and/or vomiting

• Urinary tract infection (UTI)

What are the causes of a ureterovesical junction obstruction (UVJ) in children?

UVJ obstruction occurs during fetal development, and the cause may be:

• Benign polyp (non-cancerous lump that forms on an organ)

• Infection

• Kidney stones

• Scar tissue