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Although prenatal diagnosis has been a prominent feature of Paediatric Urology for more than two decades the published literature has been largely characterized by studies reporting short to medium-term follow up. This deficiency is now being addressed by the growing availability of published and unpublished long-term outcome data for a range of prenatally detected anomalies. This review analyses the evidence on long-term outcomes which is provided by studies with mean or median follow- up exceeding 5 years, with particular emphasis on the small number of studies reporting follow -up at 10 years and beyond. The natural history and outcome of conservatively managed uropathies is considered in conjunction with an appraisal of evidence- based indications for surgical intervention. This review evaluates the relative benefits and drawbacks of prenatal diagnosis for children and their parents and also considers the impact of prenatal diagnosis on the delivery of Paediatric Urological services and specialist training., (Copyright (c) 2010. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

The long-term outcomes of prenatally detected uropathies are poorly documented. Limited data on fetal intervention show a possible reduction in early mortality from pulmonary hypoplasia, but no beneficial effect on long-term prognosis for renal function. Prenatally detected vesicoureteric reflux (VUR) is characterised by males with high-grade primary reflux, who are at long-term risk of renal impairment. Prenatal diagnosis and surgical intervention have contributed to a reduction in long-term morbidity in children with pelviureteric junction (PUJ) obstruction. By the same token, many children have almost certainly undergone unnecessary early pyeloplasty for an obstruction that would have resolved spontaneously. Multicystic dysplastic kidney (MCDK) carries a low (1%) risk of hypertension in childhood. The limited evidence on the long-term outcome of mild dilatation (pelvicaliectasis) indicates this is a largely innocent finding, which carries no increased risk of morbidity.