Severe emphysematous pyelonephritis with extensive extra-renal gas dissemination: A radiological emergency
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Case Report
Abstract: Emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN) is a rare, life-threatening, necrotizing renal infection marked by gas forming within renal and peri-renal tissues. We report the case of a 36-year-old woman with no prior medical history, who presented acute severe flank pain and systemic sepsis. Laboratory workup revealed marked hyperglycemia and acute kidney injury, with glycated hemoglobin indicating previously undiagnosed diabetes mellitus. Imaging confirmed Class 3B EPN with extensive retroperitoneal gas. Percutaneous drainage failed, necessitating nephrectomy. The patient recovered and was discharged on postoperative day 14. This case underscores the importance of early CT imaging in rapidly identifying severe EPN, facilitating surgical intervention, and improving survival outcomes.
Source: Radiology Case Reports
Authors: Zineb Labbi, Asma Cherif, Basma Beqqali, Hamza El Abidi, Ahmed Ibrahimi, Ola Messaoud, Zaynab Iraqi Houssaini, Omar El Aoufir, Laila Jrondi
Institution: Centre Hospitalier Ibn Sina
Language: English
Subfield: Epidemiology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $600
OpenAlex ID: W4415622734
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