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Condition

Pediatric Hydronephrosis

Hydronephrosis means that there is more urine in the kidneys and ureters than normal. There are several causes, many of which do not cause any harm to the kidneys, but in some cases hydronephrosis can be associated with poorly functioning kidneys. Hydronephrosis can affect one (unilateral) or both (bilateral) kidneys, and it resolves on its own in about half of all cases.

Appointments

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Frequently Asked Questions

What causes hydronephrosis in children?

What are the symptoms of hydronephrosis in children?

How is hydronephrosis diagnosed in children?

What are the treatments for hydronephrosis in children?

Meet the Providers Who Treat Hydronephrosis

Patient Stories

  • Compassion Brings Smiles

    Jocelynne’s family calls her “superwoman.” She was born with a kidney condition that brought health challenges. But she faced them with a smile.

  • Anna's Story

    Heath Alexander of Silver Spring, Maryland, underwent a rigorous assessment to determine whether he was healthy enough to donate one of his kidneys to his daughter, 11-year-old Anna Sophia Alexander.

Departments that Treat Hydronephrosis

    A baby with a stethoscope.

    The Zickler Family Prenatal Pediatrics Institute

    The Zickler Family Prenatal Pediatrics Institute at Children's National Hospital in Washington, D.C., provides specialized care for babies during pregnancy, delivery and after birth.

    Nurse practitioner in the Hand Program in the Division of Orthopaedics Surgery and Sports Medicine measures female patient's arm.

    Nephrology

    Learn how our highly skilled pediatric nephrology team works across divisions to manage the full range of kidney diseases in children, including dialysis and kidney transplantation.

    Young baby sleeping in NICU bed

    Neonatology

    Whether your infant has arrived prematurely or has a critical illness, the Children's National Hospital's top-ranked neonatology team assists in coordinating every service you and your baby need, including consultations, assessments, emergency treatments and continuing care.

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