Ultrasonographic features of nephrocalcinosis in preterm neonates

Citation
Ea. Schell-feith et al., Ultrasonographic features of nephrocalcinosis in preterm neonates, BR J RADIOL, 73(875), 2000, pp. 1185-1191
Citations number
34
Categorie Soggetti
Radiology ,Nuclear Medicine & Imaging","Medical Research Diagnosis & Treatment
Journal title
BRITISH JOURNAL OF RADIOLOGY
ISSN journal
00071285 → ACNP
Volume
73
Issue
875
Year of publication
2000
Pages
1185 - 1191
Database
ISI
SICI code
Abstract
Nephrocalcinosis (NC) in preterm neonates has been reported frequently and small studies suggest an unfavourable effect on renal function. Data on ult rasonic features are limited and the reproducibility of ultrasonography (US ) in detecting NC in preterm neonates is unknown. In this study, interobser ver and intraobserver agreement of US was determined through videotape reco rdings of US examinations of preterm neonates. Furthermore, a prospective U S study was performed in 215 preterm neonates (gestational age <32 weeks) t o evaluate ultrasonic characteristics, incidence, time course and effect on kidney length of NC. Patients were studied at 4 weeks after birth and at t erm. Patients with NC were followed for 2 years. NC was defined as bright r eflections in the medulla or cortex seen in both transverse and longitudina l direction. The length of the kidneys was noted. The kappa value was 0.84 for intraobserver and 0.46 for interobserver agreement, whereas the overall agreement was 73%. NC was found in 50 of 150 (33%) patients at 4 weeks and in 83 of 201 patients (41%) at term. NC was localized mainly in the medull a. At 1 and 2 years, NC had persisted in 36% and 26%, respectively, of the patients with NC at term. Kidney length was comparable with normal values. In conclusion, US has a very good intraobserver agreement but a moderate in terobserver agreement in detecting NC. Medullary NC is common among preterm neonates. During the first 2 years of life, the incidence decreases sponta neously and NC does not influence kidney length.