Fetal urine analysis for the assessment of renal function in obstructive uropathy.
OBJECTIVE
The assessment of fetal renal function plays a key role in the evaluation of posterior urethral valve obstruction cases. The aim of our study was to determine the value of several urinary compounds, including beta 2-microglobulin, N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase, and microalbumin in the assessment of prenatal renal function in cases of posterior urethral valve and their potential role in the selection of such cases for in utero shunting.


METHODS
A range of urinary compounds was measured, including beta 2-microglobulin, N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase, and microalbumin in 25 cases of posterior urethral valve obstruction. These cases were divided into four groups based on outcome. The Mann-Whitney test and analysis of covariance were used.


RESULTS
Sodium, calcium, and beta 2-microglobulin were the best predictors for fetal survival. beta 2-Microglobulin values > 13 mg/L were almost invariably associated with fatal outcome.


CONCLUSIONS
The estimation of beta 2-microglobulin may help in counseling parents and in selecting cases for in utero shunting.
Lipitz
S
S
Fetal Medicine Unit, University College Hospital, London, England.
Ryan
G
G
Samuell
C
C
Haeusler
M C
MC
Robson
S C
SC
Dhillon
H K
HK
Nicolini
U
U
Rodeck
C H
CH
D000118:Acetylglucosaminidase / Q000652:urine*; D000419:Albuminuria / Q000652:urine; D002118:Calcium / Q000652:urine*; D005315:Fetal Diseases / Q000652:urine*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012964:Sodium / Q000652:urine*; D014524:Urethral Obstruction / Q000652:urine*; D001613:beta 2-Microglobulin / Q000652:urine*
D001613:beta 2-Microglobulin; D012964:Sodium; D000118:Acetylglucosaminidase; D002118:Calcium