Obstructive uropathy: Overview of the pathogenesis, etiology and management of a prevalent cause of acute kidney injury.

Obstructive uropathy is defined as the structural or functional interruption of urinary outflow at any level in the urinary tract. It is regarded as one of the most prevalent causes of acute kidney injury (AKI), accounting for 5%-10% of cases. Acute severe obstruction of the urinary tract is a potentially threatening situation for the kidneys and therefore requires prompt identification and management to relieve obstruction.