A sonogram reveals mild hydronephrosis in a patient with flank pain. What is the expected finding?

In the context of a sonogram showing mild hydronephrosis accompanying flank pain, the expected finding is indeed related to the condition of hydronephrosis itself. Mild hydronephrosis indicates that there is a slight dilation of the renal pelvis and calyces due to a partial obstruction or other underlying issue, which is consistent with the symptoms of flank pain.

The presence of mild hydronephrosis visually translates to the renal pelvicalyceal system appearing somewhat distended but not to an extreme degree. Therefore, when considering the condition's progression, moderate hydronephrosis would be a logical conclusion or expected finding, as it typically implies a worsening of the situation, which could lead to more significant dilation than mild hydronephrosis.

This explanation clarifies the relationship between mild hydronephrosis and the prospect of moderate hydronephrosis as a potential finding due to the ongoing symptoms of pain and the characteristic fluid retention in the renal system.