Ultrasonographic characterisation of obstructive uropathy in Nigerian women with uterine fibroids.

Objectives: The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of upper renal tract obstructive changes in women with uterine fibroids using ultrasonography (USG).

Methods: We enrolled 140 women with uterine fibroids and performed USG of the uterus and upper renal tract with full and empty urinary bladders, respectively. The number of fibroid nodules and the uterine volume were determined. The presence of hydronephrosis was graded and documented. Uterine volumes >200 cm were denoted as large and vice versa. Statistical analysis was done using Chi-square and non-parametric tests.

Results: The median uterine volume was 556 cm. Application of a 200 cm cut-off value yielded 126 (90%) large uterine volumes and 14 (10%) small uterine volumes. Of the 140 women enrolled, 52 (37.1%) had renal backpressure changes. Of these 52 patients, 51 (98.1%) had uterine volumes >200 cm. Both kidneys were affected in the vast majority (36 out of 52 = 69.2%) of those with renal backpressure changes, and 23 (44.2%) of the 52 women with renal backpressure changes had mild (Grade 1) hydronephrosis, while 25 (48.1%) had moderate (Grade 2) hydronephrosis. When unilateral, however, backpressure changes were significantly more common on the right side.

Conclusion: Approximately one in three women with fibroids had renal backpressure changes in this study. Large uterine volume is a key predisposing factor. Routine sonographic assessment of fibroids should include a focused/targeted evaluation of the kidneys.