Definition:
Renal vein thrombosis is a blood clot that develops in the vein that drains blood from the kidney.
Alternative Names:
Clot in the renal vein; Occlusion - renal vein
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
Renal vein thrombosis is a fairly uncommon situation that may happen after trauma to the abdomen or back, or it may occur due to:
- Scar formation
- Stricture
- Tumor
It may be associated with nephrotic syndrome.
In some children, it occurs after severe dehydration and is a more serious condition than in adults. Dehydration is the most common cause of renal vein thrombosis in infants.
Symptoms:
Signs and tests:
An examination may not reveal the specific problem, but may indicate nephrotic syndrome or other causes of renal vein thrombosis.
Treatment:
The treatment is focused on preventing new clot formations and reducing the risk of the clot traveling to other locations in the body (embolization).
You may get medications that prevent blood clotting (anticoagulants) to stop new clots from forming. Your doctor may recommend bedrest or limited activity for a brief period.
Expectations (prognosis):
Renal vein thrombosis usually gets better over time without permanently injuring the kidneys.
Complications:
Calling your health care provider:
Call your health care provider if you have symptoms of renal vein thrombosis.
If you have experienced renal vein thrombosis, call your health care provider if you develop decreased urine output, difficulty breathing, or other new symptoms.
Prevention:
There is no specific prevention for renal vein thrombosis. Maintaining fluids in the body to avoid dehydration may help to reduce its risk.
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Review Date:11/12/2007
Reviewed By:Charles Silberberg, D.O., Private Practice specializing in Nephrology, Affiliated with NY Medical College, Division of Nephrology, Valhalla, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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