What causes enlarged ureters?

Enlarged ureters can result from various medical conditions including:

Ureteral Obstruction: A blockage or obstruction in the ureters, such as from kidney stones, blood clots, scar tissue, or tumors, can hinder the flow of urine and cause the ureters to dilate and enlarge.

Retroperitoneal Fibrosis: Retroperitoneal fibrosis is a condition characterized by the development of fibrous tissue in the retroperitoneal space behind the abdominal organs. This can encase and compress the ureters, leading to their enlargement.

Ureteral Strictures: Strictures are narrowings or abnormal constrictions in the ureters that can hinder urine flow and result in ureteral enlargement.

Vesicoureteral Reflux (VUR): VUR refers to the abnormal backward flow of urine from the bladder into the ureters during urination. This can damage the ureters and contribute to their dilation.

Neurogenic Bladder: Neurogenic bladder, often associated with conditions affecting the nerves that control bladder and urinary function, can lead to incomplete emptying of the bladder and subsequent dilation of the ureters.

Pregnancy: During pregnancy, the increased hormonal levels can relax the ureters and reduce their tone, resulting in dilation.

In some cases, enlarged ureters might be a congenital anomaly present from birth without any underlying medical condition.

When there's significant enlargement of the ureters or associated symptoms, such as pain, difficulty urinating, or recurrent urinary tract infections, medical evaluation and appropriate treatment are necessary to address the underlying cause and prevent complications.