Acute bilateral ureteropelvic junction obstruction as a rare cause of hypertensive crisis: a case report

Abstract

Background Bilateral ureteropelvic junction obstruction is a common cause of secondary hypertension in the pediatric population, often due to congenital malformation. On the other hand, it is less frequently encountered in the adult population and is usually due to an acquired condition, most commonly by a bilaterally obstructing nephrolithiasis causing hydronephrosis and subsequent hypertension. The aim of this study was to investigate and highlight the underlying mechanisms by which acute bilateral ureteropelvic junction obstruction causes hypertensive crisis and why early detection and prompt treatment are necessary to mitigate the effects of elevated blood pressure on target organs. Case presentation A 41-year-old African American man with hypertensive cardiomyopathy presented with anuria. He was found to have elevated blood pressure with evidence of target organ damage on laboratory examination, demonstrated by sudden elevation of his serum creatinine level. He was initially treated with oral and intravenous antihypertensives, with minimal improvement. The work-up was unremarkable apart from the imaging finding of acute bilateral ureteropelvic junction obstruction from obstructing nephrolithiasis causing hydronephrosis. Bilateral ureteral stents were placed for decompression, with resolution of the hypertensive crisis and improvement of renal function. Conclusion This case highlights the importance of prompt diagnosis and treatment of underlying acute bilateral ureteropelvic junction obstruction to mitigate the deleterious effects of sudden blood pressure elevation on target organs.

Correction to: Acute bilateral ureteropelvic junction obstruction as a rare cause of hypertensive crisis: a case report

“…Following publication of the original article [ 1 ], the authors identified an error in the author name of Niel Shah and changed the wording of a sentence in the the first paragraph of the Background section.…”

“…The sentence currently reads: These include, but are not limited to, the investigation of possible renal and vascular pathologies, endocrine issues, or drug side effects [ 1 ].…”

“…The author group and the wording of a sentence in the first paragraph of the Background section have been updated. The original article [ 1 ] has been corrected.…”