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Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is a condition where urine flows backward from the bladder into one or both ureters and sometimes the kidneys, instead of flowing out of the body normally. This backward flow occurs due to a malfunction of the valve between the bladder and the ureters that normally prevents urine reflux. VUR is most common in infants and young children and can be either primary, caused by a congenital defect of the valve, or secondary, due to blockage or dysfunction in the urinary tract.

Symptoms often arise from urinary tract infections (UTIs) and can include frequent urination, burning during urination, urgency, cloudy or foul-smelling urine, fever, abdominal or flank pain, and bedwetting in children. Some children with VUR may have no symptoms until a UTI develops. Untreated VUR can lead to kidney infections and damage, potentially causing high blood pressure or kidney scarring.

Diagnosis is typically made through imaging tests like ultrasound and voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG), which reveals the extent of reflux. Treatment ranges from antibiotic prophylaxis to prevent infections, monitoring, and in severe cases, surgery to correct the valve or blockages. Many children outgrow mild VUR as the valve function improves with age.