J Korean Radiol Soc.
1995 Jan;32(1):157-163.
Radiologic Findings of Emphysematous Pyelonephritis
Abstract
- PURPOSE
Emphysematous pyelonephritis is a rare, life threatening infection of kidney and the pennephric space, characterized by the production of gas within the renal parenchyma. The aim of this study is to analyze the clinical and radiologic characteristics of emphysematous pyelonephritis.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
We reviewed 7 cases of the emphysematous pyelonephritis. Six patients had plain abdominal radiographs, ultrasonograms and abdominal CT scans. Only one patient had plain radiograph and ultrasonogram. In 5 operated cases, CT findings were compared with surgical records.
RESULTS
Plain radiographs showed characteristic diffuse mottling of gas in renal fossa. On sonogram, intrarenal gas was identified as echogenic loci with dirty shadows. CT scan showed inflammatory mass with gas and fluid levels in adjacent to the kidney. CT findings corresponded relatively wall with the surgical findings in regard to disease extent.
CONCLUSION
lntrarenal gas in appropriate clinical setting is highly specific for emphysematous pyelonephritis. CT is the most sensitive method for demonstrating the disease extent as well as specific diagnosis.
