 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
We just had our 20 week ultrasound. Our son looks very healthy except for a blockage in one of his kidney's. If this problem does not correct itself, he will have to have surgery once he is born. Has anyone else had any experience with this or know the outcome after birth? Thanks.
?
|
|
|
|
|
|
WHAT DOES PYELECTASIS MEAN
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOUR CHILD WILL NEAD THE SURGERY?
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
My wife is 5 1/5 months prego nd our baby has pyelectasis. can anyone help calm our fears?
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
i am now 36 weeks pregnant. i was told at the 20 weeks ultrasound that my baby had pyelectasis in the right kidney. I went back for a followup ultrasound at 29 weeks and it resolved from the right kidney and is now seen in the left kidney. my doctor has assured me that this is a very common finding on male fetuses, which is what iam having. he said not to worry and that it will most likely resolve itself when the baby is born.
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
I just had my ultrasound and they said My baby has mild fetal Pyelectasis. But I can find and information about it.
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
my doctor also told us that our to be born son has slight dialation of the kidneys. my regular ob told me not to worry, that this was common, but sent me to have a more in depth ultra sound.... that doctor told me that the dialation was slight but that is a "marker" that increases the chance that the baby may have down syndrome. I just took my AFP test and have not gotten the results back from that. I have researched it on the web and half of the articles say not to worry while the other half mention down syndrome so many times that there is no way to not worry. I hope this info helps.....
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
Our 21 week ultrasound showed that our baby has pyelectasis. Our physician has offered the amino but we have concerns about this. Can someone share their experience with us and the reasons why they may have chosen the amino or not. I see many of you have similar questions/concerns. We would love some support.
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
My son was just born on 9/2/05, my entire preganancy I was upset, read too much on the internet and actually got TOO much information for my own good. I was told my son had pyelectasis but that it would most likely correct itself before he was born. At 38 weeks, his kidney had enlarged a lot. Now that he is here, he is just being followed up by a urologist, but he is ok otherwise. He will have another ultrasound in 3 weeks to decide what procedure will be done to correct the problem. The internet answers I got just scared me more than necessary.
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
i went for my 20 week and my ob sent me to have a level 2 ultrasound and the doctor found a white spot on the heart and also dialation of the kidneys. yes these are soft indications of down syndrome. i am also waiting on my afp results. can anyone shed some light on this?
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
got my results back on my quad and it was negitive. so ds is out of the picture, it put me at 1/2909 the spot on my babies heart is not a defect and the kidneys is normal is males which is what i am having. so hopefully they will correct thereselves. so to all of you i know what your going through. god bless
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dear Danielle, I sympathize with you completely. I found out at 20 weeks I was having a boy and he has Pyelectasis. Well, I freaked out and spoke with a genectic counsler and decided to schedule an amnio. I went for the apt. and layed down the Dr. again went over the risks of the procedure. I don't know but something told me to get up off the table and leave. I think unless there are other markers present, you really need to decide whether or not knowing will put your mind at ease. I do know the risks involved with amnios are VERY low. Just be at peace with whatever you choose to do. My husband is a med student and was very supportive of any decision I was willing to make. I'm 9 months pregnant and very excited for the little man to arrive.
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dear Danielle,
My ultrasound also shows that my son has pyelectasis with no other markers for down syndrome. I did have the amnio and my son does have down syndrome. I don't mean to scare you but if you are like me, you will want to mentally prepare yourself for the future. = |
|
|
|
|
|
I also found out at my 20 week ultrasound that our baby boy has pyelectasis in one kidney. Initially, they also found a bright spot on his heart (like you, Jane), but it was gone 9 days later in a follow up ultrasound, so they are suspecting it may have been an error, an not actually there to begin with. We're very worried about downs, but decided against an amnio and are waiting for delivery to know for sure. I'm now 29 weeks.
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
to rita, today i went for my follow up on the spot on the heart and it was gone! i am 25 weeks. now all we are looking at is the kidneys. which are still a little dialated. i go back in 6 weeks for another follow up. did you do the quad screening? that puts your odds higher or lower for downs. please respond
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
Jane - I didn't do the quad screening, so I don't know what my "official" odds are. The peri I saw made it clear that even if the spot on the heart disappears, it still has to be factored in as a marker, but because mine wasn't seen on the level II and was gone so quickly, they said that's encouraging. He did say that if we were just dealing with the kidney, he wouldn't even have mentioned downs at the appointment. Sort of comforting, but since I don't know for sure if the spot was ever there or not, I'm not sure what to think. The baby's kideny is still dilated, so we have to followup again at 32 weeks. You should feel really reassured about your quad results. Even if the kidney issue doesn't clear up before birth, it doesn't sound too awful.
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
Hi Michelle. That makes me feel better about what your dr. told you. I am worried because at my level 2 ultrasound this week the specialist mentioned the down syndrome thing to me. I did not have the AFP testing and I don't plan on it either but I pray the baby is okay. I am a special education teacher but it does not reassure me now.
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
This message is for Jane. I just had the same eperience as you. At my 20 wk 6 day level II ultrasound, the doc also found a white spot on the heart and dilation of the kidneys of my baby boy. He too said those are soft markers for downs. I had the blood test done that day and I am waiting for the results. My concern is that he told me they stop doing the blood test at 21 weeks and I was 20 weeks 6 day when it was done. He said it could affect the accuracy so I'm concerned about that too. How far along were you when you had the blood test done. Did your Dr. tell you what the cutoff is?
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
This message is for Jane. I just had the same experience as you. At my 20 wk 6 day level II ultrasound, the doc also found a white spot on the heart and dilation of the kidneys of my baby boy. He too said those are soft markers for downs. I had the blood test done that day and I am waiting for the results. My concern is that he told me they stop doing the blood test at 21 weeks and I was 20 weeks 6 day when it was done. He said it could affect the accuracy so I'm concerned about that too. How far along were you when you had the blood test done. Did your Dr. tell you what the cutoff is?
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
My son also has pyelectasis- 3.2mm and 4mm. I was told that an amnio was not warranted unless there were other issues:
age related risk, positive afp results, etc. A great board to look at is Babycenter.com This is a very common finding. Once a parent hears "soft marker for downs", they will not rest until they seem their baby. (Unless they have chosen an amnio) I have prepared myself for the possibility of a special needs child while knowing that this isolated finding still leaves a woman statistically in pretty good shape. An isolated pyelectasis finding and then a diagnosis of downs is unusual unless there are other reasons to suspect a chromosomal abnormality. Doctors must tell us for legal reasons, as well as the fact that there is a cut-off of greater than 8-10mm that requires follow up after birth. = |
|
|
|
|
|
My wife and I just went in for our 32 week ultrasound and to our disapointment the kidneys were still dialated. The Dr. said they are at 9mm and if it gets above 10 they will probably have to operate after delivery. We too saw a bright spot on the heart in the 20wk. ultrasound but opted not to get testing. We are not fining out what we are having, but definately were surprised to see how many boys were mentioned. Now it seems all that matters is the baby is healthy, who cares what it is. Reading these have given us more info. God bless you all and we hope for healthy babies.
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
Jay - I'm in the same boat as you and your wife. My baby boy's kidney was above 9 mm at my 28 ultrasound, so I'm assuming he'll need some type of treatment afterwards. Our perinatologist said in most cases, they can do a non-surgical procedure. Only a very small percentage need the surgery. We're meeting with a pediactric urologist next week to start preparing for what's coming next.
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
Rita- My guess is that your doctors are conservative. A 28 week ultrasound leaves plenty of time for them to diminish in size. I have read MANY studies where they have resolved after 30 weeks- they just want you to to be prepared. Even if they stay at 9, the chance of surgery is very rare. Of course they get bigger up to 30 weeks- they are still developing and growing ( which is why many resolve). From what I have read, that cut- off is only there to RULE OUT those who need surgery. (Very few ) Hope this helps some. My pregnancy has been deflated from this and I feel I have become a renal specialist in the process. :) I pray for ALL of us on these boards- that will include you to. :)
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
Laura - Thanks so much for posting. I haven't done tons of research on this, so it really helped to hear that there's still hope this could resolve itself. And yes, I think the doctors I've been dealing with are extremely conservative. They've been scaring me to death for months now, between this and the Downs situation. I honestly haven't enjoyed a single second of this pregnancy, and it's definitely my last (I have 2 girls and this one's a boy).
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
We've had several ultrasounds due to preterm labor issues. None of the ultrasounds have showed fluid in the kidneys, except one at 35 weeks. My quad screen was negative and there have been no other markers for down syndrome. The doctor said that because I was so far along and fluid had not been detected at ultrasounds done at 19, 28, 29, and 31 weeks, I am not at an increased risk for down syndrome. He did say the baby (a boy also) would be monitored after birth. Has anyone else had this problem appear only near the end of the pregnancy?
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
Just wanted to give an update on my appt. with a pediactric urologist. He was definitely reassuring, and said the problem is extremely common and not serious. In our case (I'm 31 weeks), it doesn't look like the problem will fix itself, though. He said there was no way to predict whether or not our baby will need the surgery, but his response was, "most of 'em don't." The baby will need antiobiotics at birth, plus an ultrasound and bladder x-ray at 2 weeks of age, then follow-up ultrasounds from there. Not too much new info. but I guess it was helpful. Interestingly, the size of the kidney was changing from between 8 and 12 mm during the ultrasound, so the measurements don't seem like an exact science. Needless to say, the urologist still considers it a mild to moderate case of pyelectasis.
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
Hi - I am in a similar situation as Rita and Jane - our doctor found what may have been a spot on the heart at our 20 week ultrasound, sent us in for a level II 10 days later, and thankfully, the heart looks good, but the baby does have the enlarged renal bladder (on the right side 6.3 mm). We have decided against the amnio, so have a long 10 week wait until our next ultrasound, so would love to hear follow-up information from the other moms as their results come back and their little ones are born. Thanks.
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
Hi Kara - Your situation is exactly like mine. I was curious if your doctor is still "counting" the spot as a marker, or is he/she telling you it was probably never there? The 1st peri I saw was almost brushing off the fact that it was gone so quickly, but another one I saw said it's encouraging and they don't usually disappear that quickly or that early in the pregnancy. But neither were very reassuring about it, and they wouldn't change my risk factor. In any case, I've got 8 1/2 long weeks to go, but I've had pre-term issues for my 1st 2 babies and delivered 4 weeks early for my 2nd. I'm getting excited and nervous.
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
Hi Rita - The peri-natalogist that did the level II is not factoring the spot - maybe because she wasn't the one who spotted it and never saw it for herself, however, my primary said that it's a really good sign but still needs to be accounted for in some way. Are you having a follow-up level II for the Pyelectasis? If so, Best of luck to you and the little one.
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
Kara - I've had 2 follow-up ultrasounds since the initial finding, one at 28 weeks and one at 31. The pediatric urologist I met with said there's no need for any more. They'll just check the baby when he's born. The kidney dilation has definitely increased, but my peri. said that's normal since the kidney itself is growing. Good luck to you, also!
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
does anyone know what will happen if the dialation of the kidney becomes too big during pregnancy. Will they induce labor to do surgery? Or is that too risky?
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
I am too scarred with the whole thing of pyelectasis, I am expection a daughter and her kidneys have both enlarged since the original findings.
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
i have the same problem
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
did they told u that the baby will have surgery immediatly after birth?
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
From what I have researched, they look at doing surgery if the dilation is 10 mm or larger. 5mm or larger is considered to be "enlarged", so you may want to find out exactly what your babies measured. Most of them that are under 7mm resolve on their own, with 7-10 mm needing monitoring - ultrasound on the baby around 2 days after birth. Hope that info is helpfull
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
I just had my 20 week ultrasound and the M.D. found a spot on the heart and fluid in the kidneys, which means small markers for D.S. I have am waiting my blood work results and thinking about amnio, even though my family is against it. I am having a boy and don't know what to do.
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
i also had my u/s at 21weeks and sanographer said baby has slight dialation am worried
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
I have just recently had my 20 wk 6 dy ultrasound. The Dr. found a bright spot on the baby's heart and informed us that it is a marker for Downs. My husband and I were told that according to her non official investigation (I have a level 2 scheduled in 2 1/2 weeks, where we can have someone offically look for markers) she did not see any of the other markers. I did not get the quad screening and do not know my odds. I am VERY worried and find myself crying about it often. My husband and I are 25 and 28 respectively so from what I have read we have a low chance, but even a small chance is a chance. I am so worried.....
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
Jane, Rita, Jennifer, Jay, Kari and Kati, and to any others that have had both the spot on the heart and the dialated kidney show up on their ultrasounds - I would really like to hear how things are going, results as they come up and how your little one's are doing. I have a long 5 weeks until my follow-up ultrasound (done at 32 weeks) and would appreciate any updates in the meantime, as time seems to be at a standstill right now just waiting and worrying. From the research that I've done, it sounded like finding both the spot on the heart and the pyelectasis is supposedly uncommon, but here we have 7 of us together, which seems pretty common to me - hopefully there is power in numbers. Best of luck to each of you, and I will keep you updated.
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
Kara - Sorry, no new updates for me, but I'm going in to be induced in about 2 1/2 weeks, so I'll be sure to report back. Also, I've found many, many more than just our little group that have both these same 2 markers. I honestly lost count of how many posts I've come across on various baby/pregnancy sites. My impression is that DS markers are found so often on ultrasounds that women have all kinds of combinations. Please wish me luck, everyone. I'm getting really scared, but trying to keep positive, as well.
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
Hi!
My daughter Allison was diagnosed through ultrasound at 38 weeks with what they thought at the time was a blockage in her left Kidney. She had to have several tests after she was born to determine what it was and had to be monitored. I am sure the doctors told you that many times the children will outgrow the problem many times even befor birth. Some kidney problems are linked to blue eyes, fair skin, and light hair. Interesting HUH? You pretty early on, so your baby can outgrow it. Sometimes the urter that is attached to the kidney to drain into the bladder gets kinked up and just needs time to grow and unkink itself or their is a vein that is causing the blockage. Our Urologist told us that 60-80% of babies will outgrow this by the time they are 18 months. Allisons' left kidney kept getting worse, not draining... swelling uncontrolably...So she had surgery at 16 months and when they got in there her urter actually attached on top of the kidney what they called a 'High Insertion" and they were able to move the urter and reattach it where it needed to go. She is now 28 months old and is completely healed. She has since gone in for her last follow-up. Her Urologist name is Dr. Gandhi! He is the best! Dawn www.FinallyFamilyTime.com = |
|
|
|
|
|
I just had my 19 week scan and my scan report indicated that both renal pelvis's were 4mm +. They suggest I have a follow up scan at 30 weeks. I am 35 and terrified that my baby will have Down Syndrome as this condition is a "soft marker". When I saw my Obstetrician today he did not even know that the condition was related to Down Syndrome - when he looked up his book he said it does increase the risk. I am having a daughter after two boys and want to put my mind at ease - but I am not comfortable in having the amnio test.
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
I AM GOING THROUGH THE SAME THING. I AM 23 WEEKS PREGNANT AND ON THE SONOGRAM THE DR. MEASURED LESS THAN A CM OF FLUID IN MY BABY'S RT. KIDNEY. THEY ALSO SAW MARKERS THAT REPRESENTS DOWN SYNDROME. I AM SO NERVOUS AND SCARED. I DIDN'T CHOSE TO HAVE THE AMINO BECAUSE OF THE RISKS OF ME LOOSING THE BABY OR GOING INTO PRETERM LABOR. I HAVE MADE IT THIS FAR, SO I AM GOING TO K EEP PRAYING AND HOPE THE FLUID DECREASES @ MY NEXT VISIT. PLEASE KEEP ME IN YOUR PRAYERS.
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
hi Rita - I know that you're little one's arrival is coming up quickly and just wanted you to know that you're in my thouhgts and prayers. Best of luck to you, and to all the other expectant moms who are going through this painfully long time of fear and uncertainty, just know that you're not alone!
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
Hi Kara, and everyone else. Just wanted to let you all know, I had my baby boy on 12/16 and he's absolutely fine! I need to follow up on the kidney, but that should be fine, too. Thanks for your thoughts and prayers. Hope you're all doing well. I'm sure you'll all be posting your happy outcomes soon! I'll be thinking of you all and keeping you in my prayers.
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
Rita - So Great to hear your Happy News. Thank you for keeping us updated and sharing the hope that things will all work out. Spoil that little guy every chance you get! I have my follow-up ultrasound (32 weeks) Jan 3rd, and will keep you posted. Happy Holidays to all.
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
I had an ultrasound at 19 weeks and the Dr informed us that our baby boy has borderline fetal pyelectasis and a bright spot on the heart. The quad screen that I had done at 16 weeks came back negative. I am now 20 weeks and we are meeting with a Genetic Counselor this afternoon. We have already decided against having an amnio because of the possible risk to the fetus. I'm still very worried but feel so comforted to see all of the posts. I wasn't even aware that more ultrasounds are done for the pyelectasis. My doctor only mentioned an amnio at this point.
I'm hoping that this session this afternoon will give me a lot of useful info, but I will keep looking for posts on this site for encouragement and support. = |
|
|
|
|
|
Hi,
My 18 week u/s showed my baby boy had pyelectasis and Choroid plexus cysts - both markers for chromosome abnormality. At first I declined the amnio, but ended up having it around 24 weeks because I was too stressed out and having a hard time caring for my 2.5 yr old. The results came back normal male. The cysts have since resolved and we have been following the kidneys ever since. I am currently 34 weeks. The kidneys started at 5 & 6mm and have grown to 11mm at my 30 week u/s. My next u/s is on Jan 18 when i am 36 weeks. I am so concerned about this level of dilation. My perinatologist also has a pediatric urologist who sits in on ultrasounds so I will be asking him all sorts of questions on jan 18th. They think my baby boy has a blockage called a UPJ that might require a surgery called a peyeloplasty after he is born. I am interested to hear of how the after birth follow up has been going for some of you. To the rest who are worried about chromosome problems - try not to worry. If you had good quad/triple screen results then odds are very much in your favor all is fine. My Peri didn't think I should get the amnio - he did it for my peace of mind. And he ended up being correct - baby has normal chromosomes. Try not to worry! = |
|
|
|
|
|
Melissa - I also got really concerned when my baby's kidney kept increasing at each follow-up ultrasound. At one point, it was up to 12 mm, but the size was actually fluctuating up and down during the twenty minutes the tech was taking measurements, so I would try not to get too hung up on the numbers. Even at 12 mm, the pediatric urologist still called it a moderate case (not severe) and still didn't think he would need the surgery. It's only a tiny percentage that need it. Our little guy is taking antiobiotics daily and will have his follow up with the ped. urologist next week. It's possible that the dilation will no longer be there but even if it is, I'm not really worried like I was before. The problem definitely isn't serious, and in the absolute worse case, he'll need surgery, which is very routine. So try not to worry, and keep in mind that your baby's kidney might work itself out before or after he's born. I'll update you all my little guy's appoitment next week. Hope you're all doing well!
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
Rita - thanks for the response. I am glad to hear your baby is doing well. I find myself constantly worrying that my fluid is low and wondering if he's in pain in there - even though they tell me my fluid level is fine. I think i will be nervous until I actually get to see and hold him! When did they do the first ultrasound after your baby's birth? How is he handling the antibiotics? I have read that some babies don't handle the antibiotics well and have trouble thriving. Which is another of my concerns! I'll be watching for you ped urologist update - best wishes to you!
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
Well, our visit with the genetic counselor proved to be very reassuring. She thought that the original ultrasound findings were probably pretty conservative and that the pyelectasis was only at 3mm. She said they usually do not consider it a marker until it is 4mm at their facility. We spoke with a Perinatologist and he recommedend that I have a level II ultrasound on Fri so he could see for himself what the markers looked like. (my original ultrasound was performed at a different hospital system). So far, the overall risk is 1 in 597, and yesterday they indicated that it may even improve with another ultrasound. At any rate I'm still concerned but I'll be sleeping a little better at night now.
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
I have a hopefully reassuring comment and then a question. We had a 19 week ultrasound a couple of weeks ago and learned of a bilateral dilation...one side just over 9mm and the other just under. The perinatologist also felt the bowel was a bit lighter than he would like to see which is also a marker for DS. These issues combined with my age of 37 made me an easy candidate for the amnio which I had earlier turned down. We decided to have one and am I glad because it came back negative and now I can rest easier! Now for my question...I think I only read of 3 of you here having or had a girl and the rest are all boys. I know this condition is more common in boys just don't know how much more common. We want to be surprised by the sex but feel like it's probably a boy due to stats. Either of course is fine as we have one of each already. Just don't want to have the surprise ending already at the half way point.
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
Melissa - My little guy is doing great with the antiobiotics. He eats plenty and is putting on plenty of weight, and sleeps great, too. Overall, he's really content and has been such a joy! He won't have his first follow-up ultrasound until next week (he's 3 weeks). They'll also do a bladder x-ray. The urologist told us how common this problem is, and not at all serious, so they're not going to rush into any procedures or surgery with him. Just wait and see over the next year, since this kind of thing often corrects itself. You still have plenty of time before your baby's here, so you might find that the kidney corrects itself before he's even born. Good luck with your next appointment. I'll update after we meet with the urologist.
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
my sister just got news of pyelectasis today at her 20 wk ultrasound. the doctor has her terrified. he did not mention surgery only worst case senarios like renal failure or dyalisis. i know he had to do this, but he did not mention surgery . what surgery is available
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
jaime - i cannot believe your sister's dr mentioned renal failure. Pyelectasis is very mild dilation (usually under 7mm, over 7mm its called hydronephrosis) and almost always disappears before birth. Most often the cause is physiologic and due to hormones circulating in the mothers system. My first son, who is now almost 3yrs old, had pyelectasis when i was pg. His dilation was 5/6 for each kidney. It was back to normal by 32 weeks and he had no after birth follow up and has no kidney problems what-so-ever. I am pg again, and oddly enough we're going through the kidney thing again but this time it's worse - it's 11mm hydronephrosis, and they strongly suggest a blockage. If it is indeed a blockage, my son will probably have a surgery called a pyeloplasty.
Did your sister's Dr say how bad the dilation was? There are some fatal and very serious renal diseases, but pyelectasis alone does not usually signal those. Best wishes to your sister. = |
|
|
|
|
|
I feel the need to make a correction to something I read that may terrify some moms. The division between pyelectasis and hydronephrosis is NOT 7mm...it's 10mm. Any dilation found between 4mm and 10mm is considered mild pyelectasis and anything over 10mm is considered hydronephrosis which often results in a minor surgical proceedure to clear a blockage. You should double check anything you read with your OB and/or perinatologist. If you want to research on your own just google the word pyelectasis and you will find many references stating the 10mm cut-off.
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
I had my Level II U/S yesterday in which the perinatologist was present (not just the sonographer) and the findings were quite different than my original U/S. At 18 1/2 weeks they found my baby's kidneys at 3mm and yesterday, at 20 1/2 weeks, they were down to 1.8mm. The original U/S report also mentioned an echogenic focus (bright spot on the heart) and the perinatologist said that it was actually a valve that had been mistaken as an echogenic focus. It was a real advantage to have the person reading the U/S in the room at the time to see it in real time. He said that looking at a still picture of the U/S would lead most to conclude that it was an echogenic focus.
With the results from yesterday he concluded that my risk factor for chromosomal abnormalities was not any greater for anyone else my age. Sometimes a second opinion is a real blessing! Both the sonographer and the peri also said that pyelectasis is VERY common, especially for boys and that it does usually correct itself before birth, which is what many of you have also heard and commented on. Also, concerning the EF, my peri said that it is not uncommon for the normal population to have these and that it occurs with a frequency of about 5% and in Trisomy 21 it occurs with a frequency of 10-15%, so it does increase the risk but it certainly does not mean there is a strong probabilty that the child will have Down Syndrome. = |
|
|
|
|
|
Shannon - that's great news. My pediatric urologist told me two weeks ago that most cases 7mm and above need follow up as they are now classified as hydronephrosis. But I am glad to hear he is wrong! I will let him know of his mistake at my next appt at the Children's hospital in Denver on Jan 18th.
He didn't freak me out about the term though, or make me feel that hydronephrosis was such a terrifying thing - he just said it increases a chance my child has a blockage or reflux that will need a VCUG and renal scan after birth. = |
|
|
|
|
|
Stephanie,
I am glad you had a great u/s! I agree, it's so much better having an u/s done by a perinatologist. Mine is one of the leading experts in the US on prenatal diagnosis and he wasn't concerned AT ALL that our unborn baby had two markers (CPCs and what started as pyelectasis and has progressed to hydronephrosis). My first son had pyelectasis of 5 & 6mm and it was totally back to normal at 32 weeks with no follow up needed after birth. I wouldn't worry a bit if I were you! = |
|
|
|
|
|
I have a question for Natalie.I was wondering what your AFP screening came back as?
My 20 week ultrasound showed that my baby girl has fluid in both kidneys -5mm. With no other soft signs for DS. I am worried. = |
|
|
|
|
|
JUST WANTED EVERYONE TO KNOW THAT THE DILATION DECREASED 1.5 MM @ MY LAST VISIT. I AM NOW 28 WEEKS AND HAVE ANOTHER VISIT ON FEB. 2. I HOPE THE DILATION KEEPS DECREASING MY EDD IS MARCH 26. HOPEFULLY MY LITTLE BOY WILL BE OK. ALSO THE MARKERS THAT THEY SAW ON THE SONOGRAM WERE NOT THEIR ANY MORE. THE DIALTION IS NOW DOWN TO 8.1. IT WAS 9.6 @MY FIRST VISIT IN DECEMBER. JUST CONTINUE TO KEEP US IN YOUR PRAYERS AND I WILL DO THE SAME FOR EVERYONE ON THIS SITE. I WILL KEEP EVERYONE UPDATED AND POSTED.
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
Sherri...that's great news! Good for you, and I feel encouraged too! I will have my 2nd US next week when I will be 24 weeks. My first one at 19 weeks showed both sides at 9mm. Seemed like with the first numbers being so high there was little chance of decrease. So glad to hear it's possible. You must have been so relieved!
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
I am 25 weeks & one month ago I had an u/s & the kidney measured 3mm. The Dr. said that his left kidney was kind of enlarged & he wanted me to go back for a follow up. I went this Wednesday & the babies left kidney is at 7mm! It has more than doubled in size & now he is sending me to a perinatologist for another u/s & a consulatation. I read online that these dr.'s are there to provide bad news. Naturally I am really freaked out. This is my first baby. He is a boy & I read this is commom in boys but after reading about down syndrom etc. I don't know what to do. Stress isn't helping obviously & I haven't slept in a week.
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
Alex - try not to worry about down syndrome. most likely your baby doesn't have down syndrome nor does he have a kidney problem. my first son's kidney dilation was close to 7mm and it was totally back to normal by 32 weeks with no follow up needed after birth - and no he doesn't have down syndrome either. The triple / quad screen is a better indicator of a problem than one or even two markers for down syndrome. i am pg again and my baby has two markers and i know he doesn't have down syndrome b/c i had an amnio which showed normal chromosomes. best wishes!
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
Everyone - I have a follow up u/s with my perinatologist and my pediatric urologist this coming Wed Jan 18th. My son's kidneys were at 6mm & 7mm at 23 weeks and 7mm & 11mm at 30 weeks. I am hoping that the dilation has gone down. We already know we will have follow up after birth though - a kidney ultrasound, a VCUG, and a renal scan - regardless of what the outcome of this u/s is. But it will still be very reassuring if the dilation is down. I will update on Wednesday. I will be 36 weeks 2 days at my u/s this Wednesday.
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
LEERIN... I THINK THAT EVERYTHING IS GOING TO BE OKAY. KEEP ME INFORMED ON YOUR NEXT VISIT AND I WILL DO THE SAME.
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
MELISSA... YOU ALSO KEEP US INFORMED OF YOUR DR. VISIT.
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
Alex-
Try not to worry too much. I think that seeing a Perinatologist will be very worthwhile and may even put your mind at ease. My peri indicated that they see enlarged kidneys all the time and that they are constantly changing. It's true that it is considered a "soft marker" for Down Syndrome, but with no other indicators I don't think it is a great risk. Talk it over with your Peri, they are very knowledgeable. Try to relax and enjoy your pregnancy. My thoughts and prayers are with you and everyone on this board. = |
|
|
|
|
|
I had my follow up u/s with the pediatric urologist and my perinatologist today. It went great!!! I am 36 weeks 2 days and they said that one of his kidneys is beautful - no dilation at all. And the other is now only a 5/6mm! The ped uro wrote a script for antibiotics for him after birth adn then I have to maek an appt at 2-4 weeks after he's born to do a VCUG. The ped uro said he suspects it might be kidney reflux, and not an obstruction after all. And he said reflux is often just a normal part of development adn they outgrow it by one year. So things are going great! My c-section is in 2.5 weeks. Thank goodness i am almost done! Oh - and they estimate he weighs 6lbs12oz today so by the tiem I have him he'll be pretty big!
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
I went for my regular unltrasound last wk at 18 wks. Was then sent to a specialist the next day. Found pyelectasis with measurements about 6mm on both sides. Had no idea about the downs implication prior to the visit . So, of course I was totally freaked out. I barely heard anything about the kidneys. My husband had to do most of the listening on that. I had the AFP test done at my regular ob but didn't have the results yet. I had it with my last preg. I ended up talking to the specilalist later on the phone. My risk at my age without the kidney prob is 1/1100 for downs. With pyelectasis 1/733. My risk of complications from amnio is 1/250. I then got my AFP results now my risk is one is 1/2726. I have done a lot of reading and feel much better about things. I am saying all of this to say that an amnio is an invasive test. If you want an extra help in knowing about the downs risk that is not as invasive the AFP test maybe a good choice. EIther way you have to decide what you will do with the info you get back. It would never change my mind about having my baby. Even still it was greatly reassuring to get those AFP results and they be normal. My prayers are with us all!
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
MELISSA... I AM SO GLAD THAT YOUR VISIT WENT GREAT. I HOPE EVERYTHING GOES WELL WITH YOUR DELIVERY. LET US KNOW ABOUT YOUR LITTLE ANGEL ONCE HE ENTER THE WORLD! GOOD LUCK !
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
I can relate!! Same story here as yours. I guess it could be gone in our thrid tri-mester. But if not yes I guess surgery is the answer. I am confused though because I was just reading on the internet about it "Fetal Pelviectasis" and it says that it is a soft marker for Down Syndrome. I ahd a test done for that would it not have shown up? Would love to chat and trade stories.
Email me......gldumont@sasktel.net = |
|
|
|
|
|
Hello everyboby I just found out today that my 18 week US showed a mild dilation on my son's right kidney so I've been looking for answers on the internet about what this means and now I am really freaked out because I had no idea it was a "soft marker" for DS. I had a first trimester genetic study done the was neg and my AFP test was neg. but I'm still really worried my baby might have DS. Can anybody give me some advice? This is my first baby and I'm really nervous!!
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
Jennifer--
A mild dilation sounds like what my son had at my first ultrasound. I later learned after my level II u/s (the dilation was less pronounced at that one) that it was very common to see this and as long as the dilation was not too big it isn't a problem. Did they tell you the actual measurement? Some of the other women on this board have posted a lot of information on this and their own experience, which I think you may find useful and reassuring. I think that having your blood work come back negative is a very good sign. Did your Dr refer you to a perinatologist or for a level II U/S or a genetic counselor? My doctor was only going to refer me to counseling and an amnio if I chose to have one, but when I met with the counselor she said that I ought to have another U/S with a Peri just to see what is going on (I had an additional marker for Down's with my first U/S--an echogenic focus on the heart, which was later determined to just be a normal heart valve!) I found that just talking to the genetic counselor put my mind at ease and the second opinion from the perinatologist was comforting. Based on the info you mentioned and having no other markers present I'm sure that your risk of DS is very very low and probably close to the same for anyone else at your particular age. Talk it over with your medical professionals. Try not to be too scared, most likely everything will be fine. It would be a shame if you were not able to enjoy the rest of your pregnancy because of this. Good luck to you. = |
|
|
|
|
|
Jennifer-
See my previous entry. My babies kidney's actually seem a little worse than yours. I have had my level II untrasound and my AFP tests. My specialist told me that with my age of 26 my risk of DS is 1/1100. With the kidney 1/733. Then factoring in my neg AFP test it went to 1/2726. Making it better than my odds without the kidney prob or just my basic age risk. No, the AFP test is not definite only an amnio is but it certainly made me feel better. I had it with my daughter and it was neg and she is fine. Will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. = |
|
|
|
|
|
Stephanie-
I spoke with my Dr.'s office this afternoon( I see a PA most of the time) and she stated that my baby's kidney is [3mm dialated (borderline dialated) and that the chance of my baby having DS is 1/10000 since all my other tests are neg. I asked for an amnio but she didn't think I should have one because I have no other risk factors. My OB Dr. will review my chart and see what the next step should be, usually it's just a 28 week US. Thank you for responding, I feel more at ease. Thank you Mary-Dare for responding as well, it's nice to talk with other people that are having the same feelings as I am. My thoughts and prayer's are with you all. = |
|
|
|
|
|
Jennifer--
My son's kidney was also at 3 mm at the first U/S, my peri told me that if they had seen that that they probably would not have mentioned it to me because it is so borderline. He said that they consider their threshold to be 4mm. At my second U/S it was down to 1.8mm. I also decided not to have an amnio. = |
|
|
|
|
|
Hello. I am new to this board and I am glad that I just found it. We are having a baby girl, but she has a dialted right kidney. Is anyone else having a girl and does anyone know if that increases any risks?
The dialation was first detected at our 20 week ultrasound. At the next, ~26, no change in dialtion. Then at our last, 33 5 days, the right had increased to .8. We have not seen or been referred ro a pediatric urologist or anyone else. By the way APF was normal. Any insight??? = |
|
|
|
|
|
HELLO EVERYONE!!!! I HAVE GREAT NEWS I WENT FOR MY DOCTOR APPT. YESTERDAY AND MY LITTLE BOY'S RT. KIDNEY WAS BACK TO NORMAL. I JUST TURNED 31 WEEKS ON YESTERDAY. I COULDN'T BELIEVE THAT THE DILATION WAS NOT THERE ANYMORE. WHEN I FIRST WENT TO THE DOCTOR IN DECEMBER THE DILATION WAS 9.6MM. ON MY SECOND VISIT (JAN5) THE DILATION HAD DECREASED BY 1.8MM. AND NOW HIS KIDNEYS ARE NORMAL. THIS IS TRULY A BLESSING. I WOULD LIKE TO THANK EVERYONE ON THIS BOARD FOR LISTENING AND RESPONDING TO ME. PRAYER REALLY DOES HELP AND TO EVERYONE THAT IS STILL WORRIED PYELECTASIS CAN REALLY RESOLVE ITSELF BY THE TIME THE BABY IS BORN. ONCE AGAIN THANKS!!!!! I WILL BE KEEPING EVERYONE POSTED ONCE MY BABY ARRIVES.
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
thanks so much for posting that!!! I'm 27 1/2 weeks pregnant with twins and have never posted here before but have been reading the posts. At my 20 week u/s the peri told me that one of the babies had mild dilation (3mm) on one of it's kidneys. At my 24 week u/s it had increased to 5 mm. The doctor said he is not concerned at all but it scared me. We had very good results from our nt and afp tests. THe doctor keeps telling me that this is a common finding and the babies look good but I have never heard of this and was/am quite concerned. We have another u/s on the 10th and I'm hoping it's gone. Thanks again for your positive posts!!! I'm very happy for you!!
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
We would like to thank each and every one of you for your information. I had only discovered this chat room yesturday. My wife is 37 years old, 1st risk factor for down's, and our little brandt has an 11mm hydronephrosis at 29 weeks of gestation, which is the 2nd. The AFP test came back normal. Of course we were still very concerned about the possibility of a chromosomal defect. My wife underwent an amnio. We received the preliminary results today, eliminating down's, trisomy 18, and trisomy 13. I hope that this posting helps alot of you still awaiting results or opting to wait for birth. My wife and I will have all of you in our prayers and hope this posting will ease your anxiety and depression, as yours helped us to cope a little better with the possibility of down's and the still looming hydronephosis. Because of your postings, we feel alot better about the resolution of the latter. GOD BLESS!
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
Is pyelectasis more common with boys than girls?
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
I had my 18 week ultrasound yesterday... the doctor noticed a slight dialation of the kidneys. They measured 4mm, then went down to 3mm once the baby had emptied its bladder. Also noticed the white spot on the heart. My risk from the quad screen is 1/590 and I'm 29. Not sure if I should get an amnio. I don't want to risk any harm to the baby, but I also don't want to go through the entire pregnancy feeling this anxious. Any thoughts from parents who did the amnio? Thanks!
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
Vanessa-
I would recommend getting a level II Ultrasound first because it is non-invasive. My situation was identical to yours and the bright spot turned out to be just a heart valve when the perinatologist looked at it. I am 31 so my risk factor is higher than yours and I am no longer very worried. I opted not to have the amnio because, like you my risk was less than 1 in 200. My doctor did not even mention the level II ultrasound, but when I met with a genetic counselor they recommended one. So I would push for that U/S if I were you. Good luck. = |
|
|
|
|
|
Vanessa,
I would definately have the level two u/s first. At 18 weeks there are a lot of other things to look for , such as, nuchal fold, confirming the spot on the heart is a spot and not a valve, femur length, and something to do with the fifth digit in the hand. at 3mm I would not get the amnio without another u/s. you also have to ask yourself what would you do with the results of the amnio. My wife did not think the amnio was a bad expirience. However, there is a risk. Is the stress and anxiety going to be worse for the baby, than the amnio risk. There are safe things your doctor can prescribe to lesson the anxiety also. = |
|
|
|
|
|
i went to my 32 week scan and every thing is normal thank God so much and thank you all
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
After talking to my doctor, and much thought, I decided to have the amnio. I just got the results and everything is normal!! I hope these good results will be reassuring to others in the same boat. We'll continue to monitor the kidneys, but it's a big relief. Thanks to everyone on this board for sharing their stories and advice.
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
That's excellent news, Vanessa!
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
Diya- Hi! My baby girl had 5mm in both kidneys at our 20 week ultrasound. At my 25 week US(this week) the dilatation was 5.6 and 7. The doctor said it needed to be under 8mm at that time. I have read that if both kidneys have it ,you are at higher risk for the kidneys to be refluxing or a possible blockage. My doctor does not seem to be worried at all,even though both the kidneys are showing fluid. My afp screening came back that I am at very low risk for any problems(negative) and we have decided not to do the amnio.
I will be nervous until she is born. = |
|
|
|
|
|
I have to admit that I'm really nervous and sacared now that I have read these postings. I'm 26 weeks and waiting for my 2nd U/S on March 1st. I was advised at my 24 week appt. that my son's left kidney is slightly dialated but my doctor never mentions the word "PYELECTASIS" and now I'm really worried. He told me not to worry and that it will mostly resolve it's self by the next U/S appt. I wasn't worried until I read this so I have all these questions I want to ask my ob... just asking for prayers and thanking everyone for posting there stories. At least I have an idea of what to expect when I go back to my appt. and hopefully that God will see our little man through this! I did not have the AFP test done because of the false postive results. Will keep everyone posted and will say prayers to those who are going through this also!
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
AMY.... EVERYTHING IS GOING TO BE OK. I WAS WORRIED JUST LIKE YOU MONTHS AGO. AND I PRAYED ABOUT THIS OVER AND OVER AND I AM STILL PRAYING. MY LAST VISIT WITH THE SPECIALIST ON FEB 3RD MY SON WAS OK. PRAYER CHANGES EVERYTHING. MY BABY'S KIDNEYS WENT FROM 9.6MM TO NO DIALATION @ ALL. GOOD LUCK AND KEEP ME POSTED OF YOUR LITTLE MAN.
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
Hi All,
I am new to this forum but share your concerns. I have been on the internet trying to find answers since we found out that our baby boy has bilateral pylectasis ( .77 and .79). I had my first U/S on Jan 18 and the next one on Feb 13 but the situation has not changed and the dilation remains the same. I am right now 26 wks. I see that many of you noticed reduction after the 30th week scan so hoping for the best. I am so worried but trying to say positive...thats what the doc says too 'Stay positive' ..my prayers and wishes to all of u in the same boat. = |
|
|
|
|
|
Hi I'm Brenda and I'm new to the board :)
I was told my baby boy has pyelectasis 5mm (right side) when I was 20 weeks. I go for a follow up apointment next Tuesday. I'm now at 26 weeks. I'm glad I found this forum here because it helps ease some of the stress. I hope and pray that it does resolve itself. My dh and I already went through medical issues with our last baby who had CHD and died last May when she was 5 months old. She had two open heart surgeries but it failed and she was not a candidate for heart/lung transplant. So we are definitely praying hard for a healthy baby. = |
|
|
|
|
|
I'm new here and so thankful I found this board. Just came from an ultrasound where the peri said my son had what she referred to as "juicy kidneys". One was at 5mm and the other I actually can't remember because I am in shock. Then I heard the word down syndrome, so that's not calming me down. I am at 26 weeks, everything else looked great, and I'm not at risk for having a ds baby, but I'm still terrified. I'm starting to see that it is more common than I thought, hopefully that will relax me. They scheduled another ultrasound in 6 weeks, I wish it was sooner, so I could have some peace of mind. I'll keep everyone posted, and my prayers are with all of you with going through these difficult times..
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
Hi Brenda and Michelle,
Guess all of us are at the same stage(26-27wks) and waiting for next round of U/S in 6 weeks. I can truly relate to u on how difficult this waiting period can be. Lets all be positive and pray hard and not think too much of any complication. Vidya = |
|
|
|
|
|
hi guys, i just had my 20 week ultrasound and i was told "minimal fullness of the left renal pelvis (4-5mm)
i am really worried now, i am 28 years old with one baby (healthy boy), and i had an ultrasound at 12 weeks to detect DS but my odds were 1/1559. should i get another ultrasound done at 32 weeks? i cant sleep or do any housework or look after my little one im soooo worried = |
|
|
|
|
|
hi Dawn, just wanted to know where u got that infor from that Some kidney problems are linked to blue eyes, fair skin, and light hair? heheh its very funny you say that.
just curious why u would say that? = |
|
|
|
|
|
Hi to everybory, I,m mexican an I'm having twin boys and in my last ultrasound at 18 weeks the doctor found that one of my boys had pyelectasis. Thanks to this forum now I have a lot of questions for him. At the time I didn't know anything about it. I have my next ultrasound app in 4 weeks.
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
We still have all of you in our prayers and are hoping for more good news on friday with our 32 week follow-up u/s. God bless and keep the faith.
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
hi guys its me again, im from sydney im new to this, but very happy i found this info on the net.
my 20 week ultrasound showed one of the kidneys was 4-5mm yeh they didnt even know the exact measurements! but i have read that lots of you are doing a follow up US? But they advised me that they are only going to check the baby again after he is born? SHOULD I ASK FOR ANOTHER US? = |
|
|
|
|
|
I had my 20 week US on Friday and was told that both R and L are measuring 4mm. I immediately got on the internet and found as much literature as I could about pyelectasis and what that means. I called my OB on Saturday and demanded to see a maternal/fetal expert for a second opinion. I will be scheduling an US for this week with an expert that deals only with high risk/problem pregnancies and has seen more of this than my OB. I hope he will be able to shed more light on the real reality of this soft marker for someone like me who is not high risk and has no other markers for risk. Goodluck to all of you and my prayers are with you. I will keep you posted.
=
|
|
|
|
|
|
hi wendy, please keep us updated thanks heaps, my doctor found it no big deal and said 4mm is not | |