Alex urinary tract infection update

Alex and I went to Children's Hospital today for his urinary tract infection follow up. They performed a ultrasound to see if his kidneys and bladder are developing correctly - yep!

They also did a VCUG which is a horrible procedure involving a catheter up his penis, xray, and strapping a baby down to a table. We are promptly erasing the entire experience from our memory. The test did show that he has reflux - when the urine in the bladder flows back up into the kidneys. The radiologist will write up his report and then we will consult with our pediatrician regarding treatment. From my research the treatment (if any) is largely dependent on the grade (1-5). From the preliminary info the radiation doctor said it sounds like Alexs grade is low and he doesn't have reflux caused be any structural problems. The overall worry is that if left untreated the reflux will cause scarring and problems with the kidneys.

So good news that he is developing correctly and good news that his reflux is probably the type that can be treated with daily antibiotics if even that.

I also read online that sibs have a 1 in 3 chance of also having urinary reflux even if they have not demonstrated any symptoms. From what the research says they recommend sibs getting tested as well. I will wait to see what the doctor says. I cannot imagine doing the procedure with Lee and Charlotte. It is almost better that Alex is so young because he isn't aware of what is going on and forgets quickly. Lee and Charlotte on the other hand would fret over the test and remember the pain.

I guess Alex's reflux could just be because of my chemo - or at least that is what my mommy guilt is saying in my head.

I get my test results back tomorrow morning. A week full of doctors and hospitals - what fun!