Specific causes of most of these conditions are unknown, however. Genetics and environmental factors presumably play various roles during development of these organs. A family with an affected child should consult a genetic counselor, geneticist or a physician who is familiar with genetic disorders. These experts can discuss what is known about the cause of the specific defect and what the risks may be that the defect or disorder will occur again in subsequent offspring. Many urinary tract defects can be diagnosed before or after birth with an ultrasound examination, which uses sound waves to examine internal organs of the fetus.
Renal agenesis is the absence of one or both kidneys.
Tragically, about one-third of these babies are stillborn and the rest die in the first days of life. There is no treatment that can save them. Babies with bilateral renal agenesis often have birth defects affecting other organs, such as the heart and lungs. A fetus that has no kidneys cannot produce urine, a major part of the amniotic fluid that is crucial for normal fetal lung expansion and development. Therefore, most of these deaths result from underdeveloped lungs.