Aging changes in sonographical renal appearance

Abstract EN

The length, width, thickness and cortical thickness of both kidneys were measured in 125 males.

Subjects were volunteer students or workers in Assiut University and an outpatient of non renal minor complains.

They were classified into 5 age groups; 20-30, 31-40, 41-50, 61-60, 61-70 years of age.

Renal volume and renal shape index were calculated.

Renal blood flow in the inter-lobar arteries was determined using Doppler examination.

All renal dimensions, renal volume and cortical thickness showed a reduction with age.

This was attributed to the age related glomerular structural changes reported elsewhere.

The dimensions of the right kidney were smaller than those of the left one.

This was attributed to the pressure of the liver on the right kidney and the better blood flow to the left kidney through the wider and shorter left renal artery.

The renal shape index showed a reduction in the oldest age group which indicates that the kidneys became relatively wider and thicker with the progress of age.

This might be due to the relaxation of the abdominal muscles with aging.

The Doppler renal resistive index and systolic/ diastolic ratios of both sides showed increased values in the oldest age group (V) when compared to the youngest (control) age group.

This indicated an increased renal vascular resistance and Reduction of renal blood flow with aging.

This was attributed to the functi0nal alterations in the renal blood vessels in the aged kidney