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the backflow of urine from the bladder into the ureters. This is due to defective valves (which normally prevent reflux). Infection is conveyed to the kidneys, causing recurrent attacks of acute pyelonephritis and scarring of the kidneys in childhood. Children with urinary infection must be investigated for reflux by cystoscopy; if the condition does not settle with antibiotic therapy corrective surgery must be performed.
Medical dictionary. 2011.