A Silent Obstruction: Ureteropelvic Junction Syndrome Presenting As Resistant Hypertension in an Adult

TL;DR

A rare kidney blockage caused long-term high blood pressure in an adult, showing the need for thorough imaging and targeted treatment.

Contribution

Identifies ureteropelvic junction obstruction as a rare cause of resistant hypertension in adults.

Findings

Ureteropelvic junction obstruction can lead to chronic hydronephrosis and hypertension.

Nephrectomy may improve blood pressure control in selected patients.

Detailed imaging is crucial for diagnosing rare secondary hypertension causes.

Abstract

Resistant arterial hypertension warrants systematic evaluation for secondary causes, including rare structural anomalies of the urinary tract. Ureteropelvic junction obstruction can lead to chronic hydronephrosis, progressive renal dysfunction, and sustained activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system.

We present the case of a 50-year-old woman with resistant hypertension referred for secondary cause evaluation. The patient reported paroxysmal facial flushing, headaches, palpitations, and abdominal distension. Physical examination revealed a large, non-tender mass in the right upper quadrant. Laboratory workup and target organ assessment were unremarkable. Contrast-enhanced abdominal CT demonstrated severe hydronephrosis with ureteropelvic junction obstruction, marked renal parenchymal atrophy, and ipsilateral vascular anomalies with accessory renal arteries and a partially thrombosed aneurysm. Renal scintigraphy confirmed non-function of the affected kidney, and nephrectomy was proposed.

This case highlights ureteropelvic junction obstruction as a rare but clinically significant cause of secondary hypertension in adults. It emphasizes the importance of detailed imaging in evaluating resistant hypertension and the role of targeted interventions, such as nephrectomy, in selected patients, with potential improvement in blood pressure control and cardiovascular outcomes.

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