Abstract: Posterior urethral valves (PUVs) are the most common cause of lower urinary tract
obstruction in male infants, but they are extremely rare in adults. The typical presentation is in
neonates and infants, but there have been a few case reports of later presentation in children,
adolescents, and even adults. The clinical presentation can range from life-threatening renal
failure in the newborn period to incidental detection in adulthood. The late presentation in an
adult man could be due to a less severe form of PUV that has allowed for compensatory
mechanisms to maintain adequate urinary function until later in life. Over time, the chronic
obstruction could lead to bladder dysfunction, recurrent urinary tract infections, renal
insufficiency, and chronic urinary retention.
Key words: Posterior urethral valves, late presentation, endoscopic ablation.

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