| [ Summary ] |
Patients with congenital anomalies of the kidney and the urinary tract (CAKUT) are frequently encountered clinically, but CAKUT actually progressing to renal failure is limited to cases of bilateral renal abnormalities. Various diagnostic imaging techniques and a diagnostic method using urinary samples are used for early detection of CAKUT. However, ultrasonography is the most suitable method for this purpose at this time. A group of diseases, including obstructive hydronephrosis, vesicoureteral reflux, hypoplastic / dysplastic kidney conditions and various cystic diseases may be detected. Since it is difficult for the current urinalysis screening system to detect CAKUT progressing to renal failure, it is hoped that a system will be established whereby all children may undergo ultrasonographic screening any time during infancy. |