Primary megaureter [Primärer Megaureter]

A primary megaureter is an anomaly with a prevesical or overall dilated ureter of more than 6 mm in diameter. It is important to distinguish between cases of primary non-refluxing and primary obstructive-refluxing megaureters, as the treatment of both is completely different. The basic diagnostic work-up includes ultrasonography and voiding cystourethrography. Diuretic renography is used to detect split renal function and the degree of upper urinary tract obstruction. In most cases of primary non-refluxing megaureter surgical treatment is unnecessary due to the high remission rate, whereas obstructive refluxing megaureters commonly only need to be corrected. Antibiotic prophylaxis may be indicated in infants with a primary obstructive megaureter during the first 6 months of life due to a higher risk of complications due to pyelonephritis especially in this age group. © 2013 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.