Since 1995 - Non Profit Healthcare Advice

Fluid in Kidney

06/09/2009

Question:

My son will turn one year old in June. When I was carrying him they found his left kidney not getting bigger and the right bigger then normal. I just took him for his one year ultrasound and they told me that they found more fluid in ultrasound this time then last time. It`s more prominent. I`m very worried about this. He only has the right kidney as the left one shut down and is not working. His right kidney is measuring 7.8. Is that normal and what do I have to look forward to now? His peds doctor is sending his ultrasound to his kidney doctor in Iowa City.

Answer:

I can understand your concern. However, if one kidney does not function, then the other one should grow at a faster rate than if there are two kidneys. This is because the single kidney is functioning as two kidneys. If there is significant hydronephrosis, with enlargement of the calyces within the kidney, then that is more serious and a visit with a pediatric urologist is valuable. Sometimes other tests such as a kidney scan are performed and can help determine whether a significant blockage to urine flow is present. I know the pediatric urologists in Iowa City and they are excellent, so if you have to take your child there, you will be in good hands.

For more information:

Go to the Urinary and Genital Disorders (Children) health topic.