Renal or kidney issues can sometimes be diagnosed in a fetus during routine ultrasounds. The kidneys, along with the ureters, bladder, and the entire urinary system, start forming early in fetal development. By around 10 weeks of gestation, these structures are visible on ultrasound. However, anomalies are typically identified during the second-trimester anomaly scan.
Common Fetal Renal Problems
Fetal renal issues can range from mild to severe:
- Mild Renal Pelvis Dilatation (RPD): A common condition where the renal pelvis, a part of the kidney, is slightly enlarged. This is often due to urine retention or mild obstruction in the passage from the kidney to the bladder.
- Severe Anomalies: Conditions such as a significantly dilated bladder (megacystis) or complete obstruction of the urinary tract or multicystic dysplastic kidneys.
Renal Pelvis Dilatation (RPD) During the Second Trimester
Renal pelvis dilatation is a condition often detected during the second-trimester anomaly scan. This condition may result from mild urine retention or mechanical obstruction and is usually not a cause for concern.
- Prognosis: In most cases, RPD resolves on its own during the pregnancy or after birth.
- Association with Chromosomal Abnormalities: While rare, RPD can be associated with chromosomal issues like Down syndrome. However, the risk is minimal when RPD is an isolated finding without other anomalies.
Importance of Follow-Up Scans
A follow-up scan around 28 weeks is essential to monitor the condition. This reassures parents about the baby’s health and tracks any changes in the urinary system. Most babies diagnosed with mild RPD have a normal outcome after delivery and require little to no medical intervention.
Expert Guidance at the Institute of Fetal Medicine
If you have concerns about your pregnancy or your baby’s health, the Institute of Fetal Medicine, Kolkata, provides expert diagnosis, care, and support for fetal renal problems.
Contact us:
📞 9830047676 / 9748480005 / 9831788538