What is a baggy pelvis of the kidney?
A baggy pelvis of the kidney refers to a condition where the renal pelvis, which is a funnel-shaped cavity within the kidney that collects urine, becomes dilated or widened beyond its normal size. The renal pelvis is responsible for transporting urine from the kidney to the ureter, which carries urine to the bladder.
When the renal pelvis becomes baggy or dilated, it can indicate an underlying medical condition. Some of the common causes of a baggy pelvis include:
1. Obstruction in the Urinary Tract: A blockage or obstruction in the urinary tract, such as a kidney stone lodged in the renal pelvis or a narrowing of the ureter, can impede the normal flow of urine, causing it to back up and leading to dilation of the renal pelvis.
2. Vesicoureteral Reflux (VUR): VUR is a condition where urine flows back from the bladder into the ureters and potentially reaches the renal pelvis. This reflux of urine can cause damage to the kidneys, leading to the development of a baggy pelvis.
3. Pregnancy: During pregnancy, hormonal changes and the pressure from the growing uterus can lead to dilation of the renal pelvis and ureters, resulting in a baggy pelvis.
4. Neurological Disorders: Certain neurological disorders, such as spina bifida or multiple sclerosis, can affect nerve function and impact the coordination of bladder and kidney muscles, potentially causing a baggy pelvis.
5. Congenital Defects: Some individuals may have congenital abnormalities, such as a double collecting system, where there's an additional renal pelvis, leading to dilation and a baggy appearance.
6. Chronic Kidney Disease: Advanced chronic kidney disease can cause damage to the kidneys and the renal pelvis, leading to a loss of elasticity and dilation of the renal pelvis.
7. Infections: Severe or chronic urinary tract infections can damage the kidneys and renal pelvis, causing dilation.
The presence of a baggy pelvis may be identified during medical imaging studies, such as an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI, which are commonly used to evaluate kidney function and identify abnormalities. Depending on the underlying cause, treatment may involve addressing the obstruction, managing VUR, monitoring and managing kidney function, or treating any underlying medical conditions.