Recurrent symptoms of urinary tract infection in eight patients with refluxing ureteric stumps

Objectives To evaluate and discuss the recurrent symptoms presented by eight patients with refluxing ureteric stumps. Patients and methods Eight patients (three boys, five girls: mean age: 8 years, range 11 months‐14 years) with refluxing ureteric stumps presented with recurrent urinary tract infections. Six developed symptoms mimicking pyelonephritis, even though the kidney had been partially 5 or totally 3 removed. The stump was removed in all patients. Results The stumps that were excised measured between 5 and 10 cm in length and were always dilated and inflamed. The results of histological examination and follow‐up are reported. Conclusions A dual approach is recommended when complete excision of the kidney and ureter is required. Symptoms of pyelonephritis are not pathognomonic of parenchymal infection but reflect infection above the vesico‐ureteric junction. The distinction between supra‐junctional and infra‐junctional urinary tract infections seems more appropriate and is discussed.