Emphysematous pyelonephritis: a 15-year experience with 20 cases

Emphysematous pyelonephritis: Our experience with conservative management in 14 cases

Context:

Emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN) is a rare, severe, acute, necrotizing infection of the kidney. In this study, we present the clinical details, the management strategies, and the outcome of fourteen patients of EPN managed at our center.

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective analysis of the hospital records was done. A total of fourteen patients with EPN were admitted in our hospital from August 2007 to February 2011. All the patients were managed conservatively. Follow-up ranged from six months to one year.

Results:

Of the fourteen patients, four belonged to class I, five to class II, four to class IIIA and one to class IIIB. All the patients had history of fever, 43% had localized flank pain while 36% had vague abdominal discomfort. Renal angle tenderness was the most common sign, seen in 86% of the patients. E. coli was the most common bacteria, which was isolated from urine in 57% of the patients. On the risk factor stratification, three patients had simultaneous presence of 2 or more risk factors (thrombocytopenia-2 patients; renal function impairment-7 patients; shock-1 patient). All the patients were initially managed with aggressive fluid and electrolyte resuscitation, control of blood sugar levels, and broad spectrum antibiotics. Intervention, in the form of percutaneous drainage or DJ stenting, was done in six patients. One patient failed to respond to this minimally invasive modality of treatment and had to undergo an open drainage. Thus, the acute episode was managed with conservative management strategies in all the patients; however, three patients underwent nephrectomy due to poorly-functioning kidney during follow-up.

Conclusions:

EPN is now being more readily diagnosed, at an early stage, making conservative management of EPN a safe, effective, and feasible option.

Emphysematous pyelonephritis: A single center study

We present our experience of 22 cases of emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN) treated from 1996 to 2012. Medical records were analyzed retrospectively for demographic profile, presence and duration of diabetes mellitus, and mode of clinical presentation. EPN was diagnosed based on demonstration of intra-renal gas by plain X-ray, ultrasound, and/or computed tomography (CT) scan. Details of medical treatment, reason for surgical intervention, and final outcome were recorded. Univariate analysis was performed to identify risk factors for mortality and P value of less than 0.05 was taken as significant. Twenty-two cases (6 males, 16 females) of EPN were diagnosed. Seven cases presented with acute pyelonephritis, seven cases with urosepsis, and the remaining eight patients with multi-organ dysfunction. CT grading of EPN was class IV in three, class III in four, class II in 14, and class I in one. All were initially managed medically with parenteral antibiotics. Ten patients needed additional surgical intervention. The overall survival rate was 86.3% (19/22). Among the risk factors analyzed higher CT grade, altered sensorium and thrombocytopenia were significantly associated with mortality. We conclude that a more conservative approach in managing EPN has become the standard of care. Patients having high CT grade of lesions (III and IV) with altered sensorium and thrombocytopenia at presentation are more likely to die due to the disease and may be better managed by an aggressive surgical plan.

Emphysematous urinoma as a complication of emphysematous pyelitis in a healthy adult male

Emphysematous pyelitis and urinomas are independently rare conditions. The former is a severe necrotizing infection involving the renal collecting system, the latter an encapsulated collection of urine in the perinephric or paraureteral space. An unusual case of emphysematous urinoma complicating emphysematous pyelitis in a healthy male adult is presented in this study.

Emphysematous pyelonephritis: an 8-year retrospective review across four acute hospitals

OBJECTIVE

To retrospectively review our experience of managing patients with emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN).

METHODS

Case notes of patients with EPN were reviewed. The patients' demographic data, clinical presentation, investigation findings, treatment, and outcome were studied.

RESULTS

Twelve patients were diagnosed with EPN. Majority (66.7%) of them had diabetes mellitus. All patients had been evaluated by computed tomography (CT). Using the classification proposed by Wan et al, five patients had type 1 EPN, whereas six, two, and four patients had Huang and Tseng CT class 2, 3a, and 3b EPN, respectively. Immediate nephrectomy was performed in six patients, whereas conservative treatment was adopted in the other six. In the nephrectomy group, one patient died of disseminated sepsis after a protracted course. Conservative treatment failed in three patients, who succumbed despite salvage nephrectomy in two of them. Analysis revealed that severe hyperglycemia and radiological CT class (both Wan and Huang systems) were significant predictors of mortality from EPN.

CONCLUSION

Severe hyperglycemia and CT class of EPN are significant risk factors for death. CT is the investigation of choice for correct diagnosis of EPN. Additional intervention should be offered to EPN patients with Wan type 1 and Huang and Tseng class 3 CT features.

Bilateral emphysematous pyelonephritis in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease

Emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN) is an uncommon infection of renal parenchyma with gas-forming organisms. EPN is usually seen in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM). The association of EPN with conditions other than DM is extremely rare. We report a case of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease with bilateral EPN who had to undergo bilateral nephrectomy.

Clinical outcomes of nonoperative management in emphysematous urinary tract infections

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the clinical outcomes of nonoperative management of emphysematous urinary tract infections (EUTIs).

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 28 consecutive cases of EUTI over a 5-year period, all of which were treated with urinary drainage and medical management without surgical intervention. EUTIs were classified as either emphysematous pyelonephritis (EP) or emphysematous cystitis (EC). Clinical, diagnostic, and therapeutic data were analyzed.

RESULTS

Of the 28 patients evaluated, 13 had EP and 15 had EC, all of which were diagnosed by computed tomography. Of EP patients, the mean age was 54 years with a median serum creatinine (sCr) of 1.8 mg/dL (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] 38 mL/min/1.73 m(2)). Obstructive uropathy was present in 69%, and 100% received antibiotics and percutaneous drainage without mortality. Median follow-up was 10 months without any subsequent nephrectomy and median sCr decreased to 1.1 mg/dL (P = .04) and eGFR increased to 63.5 mL/min/1.73 m(2) (P = .06). Of EC patients, the mean age was 60 years with a median sCr of 1.3 mg/dL (eGFR 55 mL/min/1.73 m(2)). All were managed with antibiotics and catheter drainage with a single mortality (7%). Median follow-up was 2 months and median sCr decreased to 1.2 mg/dL (P = .83) and eGFR increased to 46 mL/min/1.73 m(2) (P = .68). The most common causative pathogen was Escherichia coli for both EP (54%) and EC (53%).

CONCLUSION

Early detection, medical management, and urinary drainage of EUTI can result in a favorable prognosis. This strategy results in low levels of mortality without the need for surgical intervention and can preserve renal function.

Risk factors of renal failure and severe complications in patients with emphysematous pyelonephritis-a single-center 15-year experience

INTRODUCTION

Emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN) is a rare but severe infection of renal parenchyma. Risk factors of renal failure in patients survived from EPN are not clear.

METHODS

The authors retrospectively reviewed the patients with a diagnosis of EPN at Taipei Veterans General Hospital from January 1, 1995, to December 31, 2009. The authors analyzed the demographic, characteristics and the treatment modalities of those patients. The renal function of survivors after EPN episode had been followed for 1 year.

RESULTS

A total of 23 patients with a mean age of 62.8 ± 17.1 years were enrolled. Mean hospital duration was 31.8 ± 21.6 days. Fifteen (65.2%) patients had a history of diabetes mellitus. Mean serum HbA1c level among the diabetic patients was 11.7 ± 3.3. More than half of patients had Escherichia coli in culture. Eleven (47.8%) patients received antibiotic treatment alone. Twelve (52.2%) patients received the concurrent percutaneous drainage and antibiotics. The overall mortality rate was 8.6%. Shock, long hospital duration and the extensive classes of computed tomography image were correlated with poor outcome. A higher initial serum creatinine level (2.8 ± 1.4 versus 1.6 ± 0.8, P = 0.015) and receiving invasive therapy (67.7% versus 12.5%, P = 0.017) significantly contributed to chronic kidney disease in the follow-up. Shock is also an independent predictor of the poor outcome in those patients (P = 0.026).

CONCLUSIONS

In the current era, antibiotics alone provide a high success rate for the treatment of EPN. Invasive therapy is a predictor of development of chronic kidney disease. Initial resuscitation and antibiotic therapy are still the cornerstone and have the benefit of the preservation of renal function.

Incidentally detected emphysematous pyelonephritis

Emphysematous pyelonephritis (EP) is a rare, severe gas forming infection of renal parenchyma and its surrounding areas and potentially life threatening condition that requires prompt evaluation and treatment. Although it commonly present with a fulminant clinical picture of sepsis, relatively mild symptoms can also be encountered. To our knowledge, incidentally detected emphysematous pyelonephritis has not been reported so far. We report a case of EP that was incidentally detected during evaluation for diabetes.

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis Treated with Elective Nephrectomy in a 75-Year-Old Diabetic Patient

We present a case of 75-year-old man with type 2 diabetes and emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN). The patient presented with abdominal pain, fever of undetermined origin and progressive decrease in urine output. Computerized tomography scan revealed gas formation in the left renal parenchyma and capsule. A left nephrectomy was performed. He made a quick recovery. EPN should be taken into consideration in diabetic patients with symptoms of pyelonephritis who show a poor response to conventional treatment. Elective nephrectomy may be life saving in some patients.

Emphysematous pyelonephritis with complete duplication of the left urinary tract

Emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN) is a life-threatening bacterial infection and should be treated rapidly and carefully. We report a case of EPN with complete duplication of the left urinary tract. A 68-year-old woman was admitted to our hospital complaining of high-grade fever and left flank pain. An abdominal computed tomography scan showed gas was presented in the renal parenchyma, not only the pelvis and ureter. Based on these findings, a diagnosis of left EPN was made. A partial nephrectomy of the affected left upper pole moiety was performed and the patient underwent additional medical management. Other 83 cases of EPN from the Japanese literature were reviewed.

Kidney preservation protocol for management of emphysematous pyelonephritis: Treatment modalities and follow-up

Objectives

To present treatments for kidney preservation in the management of emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN), and to evaluate the functional outcome of preserved kidneys during the follow-up.

Patients and methods

The computerized files of patients with EPN from 2000 to 2010 were reviewed. After initial resuscitation, ultrasonography-guided percutaneous tubes were placed for drainage of infected fluid and gas. A radio-isotopic renal scan was done after stabilization of the patients’ condition. Preservation of the affected kidney was attempted when the differential function was >10%. A renal isotopic scan was taken during the follow-up to evaluate renographic changes in preserved kidneys.

Results

The study included 33 kidneys in 30 consecutive patients (mean age 51.7 years, SD 10.9). Kidney preservation was applicable for 23 kidneys (20 patients). Preservation methods included percutaneous nephrostomy for 12, percutaneous tube drain for two and conservative treatment for nine kidneys (six patients). Nephrectomy was performed for 10 kidneys (emergency in three and delayed in seven). The frequency of post-treatment septic shock after kidney preservation (10%) was significantly lower than after nephrectomy (20%, P = 0.005). The overall mortality rate was 7% (two patients). The follow-up was completed for 13 patients with 15 preserved kidneys for a mean duration of 21 months. During the follow-up, differential renographic clearance of the affected kidney was stable in 13 of 15 while two kidneys showed improvement.

Conclusions

Kidney preservation should be the primary goal in the treatment of EPN when the differential renal clearance is >10%. It was associated with fewer complications than nephrectomy and the follow-up showed a favourable functional outcome of the preserved kidneys.

Emphysematous pyelonephritis with calculus: Management strategies

OBJECTIVE

Emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN) with calculus is well recognized but with very few reports on its treatment. Our aim is to elucidate our experience in its successful management.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Over four years, we diagnosed seven cases (eight renal units) of EPN, out of which two patients (three renal units) had EPN with urinary calculi. After the initial conservative management of EPN, the stones were tackled appropriately.

RESULTS

EPN was initially managed effectively with antibiotics and supportive care. Once the patient was stable, the stones were cleared in a step-wise fashion. The associated postoperative complications were also tackled efficiently with preservation of renal function.

CONCLUSION

In EPN with stones, nephrectomy is not the sole option available and they can be effectively managed with open / endoscopic measures.

Acute bilateral emphysematous pyelonephritis

The author reports the case of a well and fit patient who presented herself to the emergency department and was found to have bilateral emphysematous pyelonephritis. She was admitted to the intensive care where she was initially treated conservatively with antibiotics, percutaneous drainage and continuous renal replacement therapy, but her condition deteriorated. She underwent a left total nephrectomy and a partial right nephrectomy that resulted in remarkable improvement. The patient started passing urine spontaneously, so no haemofiltration was required. She was discharged home and her case was followed-up by an urologist and nephrologist. This case lays emphasis on thoroughly investigating and managing a patient with bilateral emphysematous pyelonephritis and, in relation to its management, on the dilemma of whether the treatment of choice should be conservative or surgical.

Emphysematous pyelonephritis

Emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN) is a severe necrotizing infection of the renal parenchyma. The clinical course of EPN can be severe and life-threatening if not recognized and treated promptly. Most of the information has been from case reports, a few large series have also been reported. Using an evidence-based approach, this review describes the pathogenesis, classification, complications, and management of EPN. Emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN) is an acute severe necrotizing infection of the renal parenchyma and its surrounding tissues that results in the presence of gas in the renal parenchyma, collecting system, or perinephric tissue. The cause for mortality in EPN is primarily due to septic complications. Up to 95% of the cases with EPN have underlying uncontrolled diabetes mellitus. The risk of developing EPN secondary to a urinary tract obstruction is about 25-40%. There are three classifications of EPN based on radiological findings. Acute renal failure, microscopic or macroscopic haematuria, severe proteinuria are other positive findings in EPN. Escherichia coli is the most common causative pathogen with the organism isolated on urine or pus cultures in nearly 70% of the reported cases. A plain radiograph shows an abnormal gas shadow in the renal bed raising the suspicion whereas an ultrasound scan or computed tomography (CT) will confirm the presence of intra-renal gas thus supporting the diagnosis of EPN. Gas may extend beyond the site of inflammation to the sub capsular, perinephric and pararenal spaces. In some cases, gas was found to be extending into the scrotal sac and spermatic cord. Subsequent case studies have shown patients being successfully treated with PCD when used in addition to medical management, with significant reduction in the morality rates. PCD should be performed on patients who have localized areas of gas and functioning renal tissue is present. The treatment strategies include MM alone, PCD plus MM, MM plus emergency nephrectomy, and PCD plus MM plus emergency nephrectomy. In small proportion of patients managed with MM and PCD, subsequent nephrectomy will be required and in these patients the reported mortality is 6.6% Nephrectomy in patients with EPN can be simple, radical or laparoscopic.

Culture-negative bilateral emphysematous pyelonephritis presented as acute renal failure and managed medically only

Emphysematous pyelonephritis is a life-threatening infection especially seen in patients with poorly-controlled diabetes mellitus. Imaging modalities (preferably computed tomography) are required to establish the diagnosis. Treatment modalities include volume resuscitation, broad-spectrum antibiotics, percutaneous drainage, and, as a last resort, nephrectomy. We present a case of a 46-year-old female who had hypertension and type-2 diabetes mellitus and presented with complaints of dysuria, back pain, and decreased urine output. Renal ultrasound and abdominal computerized tomography (CT) revealed air-fluid levels at each perirenal region and collecting systems, consistent with emphysematous pyelonephritis. Her clinical situation improved with vigorous fluid resuscitation and broad-spectrum antibiotic treatment.

Current management of emphysematous pyelonephritis

Emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN) is a severe, necrotizing renal parenchymal infection that is characterized by the production of intraparenchymal gas. EPN predominantly affects female diabetics, and can occur in insulin-dependent and non-insulin-dependent patients in the absence of ureteric obstruction. Nondiabetic patients can also develop EPN, but often have ureteric obstruction and do not seem to develop such extensive disease. One gaseous component-carbon dioxide-is generated by bacterial fermentation of glucose (present in excess in diabetics) and acids. Patients with EPN show relatively vague symptoms initially, but frequently undergo a sudden deterioration in their condition, necessitating urgent medical attention. Treatment of patients with EPN comprises resuscitation, correction of any electrolyte and glucose problems, and administration of antibiotics targeting Gram-negative bacteria. Ureteric obstruction, if present, is relieved by a percutaneous nephrostomy or stent. Definitive management is by percutaneous drainage, except when there is extensive diffuse gas with renal destruction; in this case, a nephrectomy is advised. The requirement for a nephrectomy could potentially be avoided by early diagnosis and treatment of diabetics with urinary infection. With the advent of CT, a staging system of the gas patterns generated in the kidneys of EPN patients has evolved. Risk factors have been defined to aid management.

Emphysematous pyelonephritis: a case report series of four patients with review of literature

Emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN) is an acute necrotizing infection with gas presence in the kidney, perinephric space, and/or urinary collecting system that carries a bad prognosis. Some clinical conditions predispose to this entity, such as diabetes mellitus, urinary tract obstruction, and immune-incompetence. Immediate resuscitation, broad-spectrum antibiotics, percutaneous and surgical drainage, and emergent and delayed nephrectomy are therapeutic options that should be applied in a timely fashion. We report our experience of four patients with EPN. Two of the patients were kidney transplant recipients, one patient had bilateral urolithiasis, and one patient was an elderly patient with debilitated general condition and an abdominal mass that could not be defined. Late transplant nephrectomy was performed in one patient, and three patients were treated conservatively. Three patients died, including the patient who had transplant nephrectomy. One patient who presented with lithiasis showed a remarkable recovery with conservative management. The bacteria involved were E. Coli and a resistant Klebsiella. We conclude that EPN is a life-threatening condition that carries a bad prognosis. Early diagnosis is essential for a positive outcome. Therapeutic measures should be applied immediately after diagnosis. An aggressive approach including nephrectomy may be emergently required.

Predictive factors for mortality and need for nephrectomy in patients with emphysematous pyelonephritis

OBJECTIVE

To analyse the factors predicting the mortality and need for nephrectomy in patients with emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Clinical features, laboratory variables, imaging studies, management strategy and the final outcomes were analysed in 39 consecutive patients with EPN. The mean (sd) age was 57 (7.2) years and the male to female ratio was 2:11. The baseline risk factors (clinical, laboratory and radiological) were compared among three groups; group 1, survived with renal salvage (26); group 2, survived after nephrectomy (eight); and group 3, died (five).

RESULTS

The overall survival rate was 87% (34/39) and the kidney was salvaged in 67% (26) patients at a median follow-up of 18 months. Altered mental status, thrombocytopenia, renal failure and severe hyponatremia at presentation were significantly associated with mortality rate. There was no significant difference in final outcome based on radiological classification. Extensive renal parenchymal destruction of >50% (based on computed tomography) significantly predicted the need for nephrectomy (P < 0.001) and death (P = 0.02). Early (<1 week) nephrectomy resulted in a higher mortality rate (three of seven patients) than initial conservative management. There were no deaths in selected patients who received antibiotics alone or had delayed nephrectomy (four patients each). Of 24 patients who had minimally invasive treatment alone, two (8%) died. Minimally invasive treatment resulted in high renal salvage (22/24, 92%).

CONCLUSION

Altered mental status, thrombocytopenia, renal failure and severe hyponatremia at presentation are associated with higher mortality rates, whereas extensive renal parenchymal destruction is associated with a need for nephrectomy. Early nephrectomy is associated with higher mortality rates than is initial conservative management.

Outcome of nephrectomy and kidney-preserving procedures for the treatment of emphysematous pyelonephritis

OBJECTIVE

Emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN) is an acute necrotizing infection of the kidney characterized by gas formation. In order to compare the outcome of nephrectomy and kidney-preserving procedures for the treatment of EPN we reviewed our experiences of EPN over the past 18 years.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The medical records of 17 patients with EPN treated between October 1986 and September 2004 were retrospectively reviewed. Abdominal X-ray and/or CT were used as diagnostic methods.

RESULTS

Women outnumbered men (12 vs five), and all patients had diabetes. Obstruction of the corresponding reno-ureteral unit was found in one patient. Thirteen of the 17 patients (76%) had poorly controlled diabetes (hemoglobin A1c>7%). The diagnosis of EPN was confirmed by gas in the parenchymal or perinephric space as detected by abdominal X-ray or CT. Escherichia coli was the commonest organism present in urine cultures (52%), followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae (24%). Prompt efforts were made to control diabetes, and i.v. antibiotics were given. Nephrectomy was performed in 10 patients and nine patients survived (90% success rate). The success rate among those who received medical therapy only was 50% (2/4 patients). Percutaneous drainage was performed in three patients, two of whom survived (67% success rate). The overall mortality rate was 17.6% (3/17 patients).

CONCLUSIONS

Immediate nephrectomy with glycemic control measures and antibiotic administration is crucial for the successful treatment of EPN. However, in inoperable cases, percutaneous drainage can be an effective treatment option.

Retrospective analysis of clinical profile prognostic factors and outcomes of 19 patients of emphysematous pyelonephritis

AIM

We aimed to study the clinical profile, prognostic factors, and the 6-month outcome of patients with emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN) METHODS: All patients admitted with a diagnosis of emphysematous pyelonephritis between January 2001 and July 2007 were included.

RESULTS

Overall 19 cases were diagnosed to have emphysematous pyelonephritis. There were 16 females and three males. Fourteen cases had type 2 diabetes mellitus. Fourteen cases had unilateral involvement and five had bilateral involvement. Eleven cases were classified as having class 1 or 2 disease and eight cases had class 3 and 4 disease. E. coli was the most common organism cultured (68.4%). Five cases underwent percutaneous drainage of the collecting system and three cases had nephrectomy of which 10.5% (two with advanced disease) expired. Shock at admission (p = 0.03), serum creatinine >5.0 mg/dl (p = 0.035) and DIC (p = 0.017) were independent poor prognostic factors. There was no difference in the prognosis between patients who had >or=2 or <2 poor prognostic factors (p = 0.16). However, prognosis was not related to disease class, unilateral vs. bilateral involvement, sepsis or the age of the patient. At 6 months, two patients were on maintenance hemodialysis.

CONCLUSIONS

In cases of EPN, shock, serum creatinine >5.0 mg/dl and DIC at admission are poor prognostic factors. Larger prospective studies are needed to confirm our findings.

An uncommon cause of postpartum renal failure--bilateral emphysematous pyelonephritis

Peripartum acute renal failure is an important complication related to pregnancy leading to significant morbidity and mortality. Emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN) is a severe necrotizing infection of the renal parenchyma, with formation of gas within the collecting system, renal parenchyma, or perirenal tissues. EPN is common in persons with diabetes or urinary tract obstruction. Herein we report a case of bilateral emphysematous pyelonephritis in a postpartum lady who had no evidence of diabetes or urinary tract obstruction. Management of this condition has traditionally been aggressive, and surgery has been considered mandatory. Our patient was managed successfully with antibiotics and supportive measures alone.

Reappraisal of the management and outcome of emphysematous pyelonephritis

This study compared the management, prognostic factors and outcomes of patients with emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN). Twenty-one patients with EPN were studied between September 1996 and August 2005, and were assigned to two groups. Patients in Group 1 received conservative treatment with/without percutaneous catheter drainage (PCD) while patients in Group 2 underwent nephrectomy following medical treatment and PCD. A post hoc analysis of the prognostic factors was performed between survivors and nonsurvivors, and between the survivors in Group 1 and Group 2. There were 14 patients in Group 1, and seven in Group 2. The mortality in Group 1 was 35.7% (5/14) and in Group 2 was 0% (p = 0.12). There were no statistically significant differences in prognostic factors between the two groups, though patients in Group 1 had relatively lower platelet counts (p = 0.07) and Group 2 patients had a higher incidence of dialysis after nephrectomy (p = 0.03). Comparing the survivors and nonsurvivors, patients with comorbid congestive heart failure and patients initially presenting with consciousness disturbances had higher mortalities (p = 0.02 and p < 0.01, respectively). Nonsurvivors also had lower platelet counts (p = 0.06). In conclusion, medical treatment with/without PCD can be used to manage patients with EPN. More agressive drainage is needed in patients with congestive heart failure who initially present with consciousness disturbances or thrombocytopenia.

Emphysematous pyelonephritis in type II diabetes: A case report of an undiagnosed ureteric colic

Introduction

Emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN) is a severe acute necrotising infection of the renal parenchyma and perirenal tissue, characterised by gas formation. 90% of cases are seen in association with diabetes mellitus. We report a case of undiagnosed ureteric obstruction in a type II diabetic, leading to EPN requiring emergency nephrectomy.

Case presentation

A 59-year-old type II tablet controlled diabetic woman presented complaining of a five day history of right sided abdominal pain associated with vomiting, abdominal distension and absolute constipation. There were no lower urinary tract symptoms. Past surgical history included an open appendectomy and an abdominal hysterectomy. On examination, she was haemodynamically stable, the abdomen was soft, distended, and tender in the right upper and lower quadrants with no bowel sounds. Investigations revealed a CRP of 365 and 2+ blood and nitrite positive on the urine dipstick. The AXR was reported as normal on admission, however when reviewed in retrospect revealed the diagnosis. She was managed, therefore, as having adhesional bowel obstruction and a simple UTI. After four days, a CT was organised as she was not settling. This showed a right pyohydronephrosis with gas in the collecting system secondary to an 8 mm obstructing ureteric calculus. The kidney was drained percutaneously via a nephrostomy and the patient was commenced on a broad spectrum intravenous antibiotics. Despite this, she went on to need an emergency nephrectomy for uncontrolled severe sepsis. She was discharged in good health 15 days later.

Conclusion

EPN carries a mortality of up to 40% with medical management alone. Early recognition of EPN in an obstructed kidney is essential to guide aggressive management, and in the presence of continued severe sepsis or organ dysfunction an urgent nephrectomy should be carried out. Diabetic patients who are known to have renal or ureteric calculi, whether symptomatic or not, should be considered for percutanous or ureteroscopic treatment. In the acute abdomen, the plain abdominal radiograph should always be viewed with respect to general surgical, vascular and urological differential diagnoses.

Emphysematous pyelonephritis, a rare cause of pneumoperitoneum: a case report and review of literature

INTRODUCTION

Emphysematous pyelonephritis is a gas-producing necrotizing bacterial infection that involves the renal parenchyma and perirenal tissue.

CASE PRESENTATION

We report on a case of a 55 year old Caucasian male with no prior medical history presented with left flank pain and malaise. He was diagnosed with emphysematous pyelonephritis, and was successfully treated in our department. The case is presented along with a literature review.

CONCLUSION

Prompt diagnosis and early treatment is crucial because of the high rate of mortality. Therapeutic modalities and prognostic factors regarding emphysematous pyelonephritis remain controversial.

Is percutaneous drainage the new gold standard in the management of emphysematous pyelonephritis? Evidence from a systematic review

PURPOSE

There is no current consensus on what constitutes the ideal management of emphysematous pyelonephritis. We review the current management strategies including the role of nephron preserving percutaneous drainage in the treatment of emphysematous pyelonephritis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We searched MEDLINE, PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL and the Cochrane Library from 1966 to 2006. Abstracts were reviewed including all types of studies from prospective randomized controlled studies to small retrospective series. All relevant English language articles reporting on at least 5 patients were reviewed.

RESULTS

Ten retrospective studies on 210 patients with emphysematous pyelonephritis met the inclusion criteria. There were 167 females and 43 males with a mean age of 57 years (range 24 to 83). Of the patients 96% had diabetes mellitus and 29% had urinary tract obstruction. The diagnostic accuracy of computerized tomography was 100%. Escherichia coli and Klebsiella were the most common causative agents. The mortality from medical management alone was 50%, medical management combined with emergency nephrectomy was 25% and medical management combined with percutaneous drainage was 13.5%. Mortality was significantly less in patients undergoing percutaneous drainage compared to other treatments (Pearson chi-square p <0.001). Of the patients who underwent medical treatment with percutaneous drainage a small number (15) underwent elective nephrectomy and mortality was 6.6% (1 of 15).

CONCLUSIONS

Percutaneous drainage should be part of the initial management strategy for emphysematous pyelonephritis. This strategy is associated with a lower mortality than medical management or emergency nephrectomy. Delayed elective nephrectomy may be required in some patients.

Emphysematous pyelonephritis: outcome of conservative management

OBJECTIVES

To identify the prognostic factors, assess the outcome of conservative management, and modify the existing radiologic classification of emphysematous pyelonephritis.

METHODS

Forty-one consecutive patients diagnosed with emphysematous pyelonephritis between January 2001 and February 2007 were studied retrospectively. On the basis of computerized tomographic scan they were grouped into four classes (1 to 4). The management was conservative with antibiotics alone or with a combination of percutaneous drainage and antibiotics.

RESULTS

Thirty-eight (93%) of a total of 41 patients were diabetic. Escherichia coli (in 97%) was the predominant pathogen identified in pus culture. With antibiotics alone treatment was successful in 40%, and with a combination of percutaneous drainage and antibiotics the success rate was 80%. None underwent nephrectomy as a primary procedure. The risk factors for mortality were thrombocytopenia, shock, altered sensorium, and hemodialysis. In the absence of risk factors the success rate with conservative management was 100%. The mortality rate was 27%, 75%, and 100% in the presence of one, two, and three risk factors, respectively. The mortality rate in class 1, 2, 3, and 4 was 9%, 13%, 50%, and 33% respectively. The overall success rate was 78%.

CONCLUSIONS

A combination of percutaneous drainage with antibiotics offers an effective therapy for emphysematous pyelonephritis.

[Management of emphysematous pyelonephritis based on a series of 21 cases]

OBJECTIVE

To define the clinical, laboratory and morphological features of emphysematous pyelonephritis, as well as the treatment modalities, with particular emphasis on the need for urgent treatment.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Between 1987 and 2004, 21 patients were treated for emphysematous pyelonephritis. Epidemiological, clinical, laboratory and radiological data, treatments and clinical outcome were retrospectively collected for all patients.

RESULTS

This series comprised 15 women and six men with a mean age of 54.6 years. All were diabetic. Upper urinary tract obstruction was demonstrated in 47.6% of cases. The left kidney was affected in 14 patients and the right kidney was affected in six patients. Only one patient had bilateral pyelonephritis. The diagnosis was established by CT in every case. All patients received appropriate intensive care. Treatment was purely medical in one case. Emergency nephrectomy was performed in 12 patients, emergency surgical drainage was performed in three patients, percutaneous drainage was performed in two cases and ureteric catheter drainage was performed in three patients. The mortality rate in this series was 23.8%.

CONCLUSION

Emphysematous pyelonephritis is a serious infection. Early diagnosis is essential, particularly in diabetic patients. The positive diagnosis is based on computed tomography and treatment is now increasingly conservative.

Risk factors for mortality in patients with emphysematous pyelonephritis: a meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Emphysematous pyelonephritis, an infection most commonly seen in cases of diabetes mellitus, is associated with considerable case fatality. We identified the factors associated with mortality in patients with emphysematous pyelonephritis and estimated the magnitude of the associations.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

PubMed was searched to identify studies reporting on risk factors of mortality in patients with emphysematous pyelonephritis. A meta-analysis of the eligible studies was performed.

RESULTS

Seven study cohorts, representing 175 patients with emphysematous pyelonephritis, were included in the meta-analysis. The overall mortality rate was 25%, ranging from 11% to 42%. Conservative treatment alone (OR 2.85, 95% CI 1.19-6.81), bilateral emphysematous pyelonephritis (OR 5.36, 95% CI 1.41-20.33), type I emphysematous pyelonephritis (OR 2.53, 95% CI 1.13-5.65) and thrombocytopenia (OR 22.68, 95% CI 4.4-116.32) were associated with increased mortality. Systolic blood pressure less than 90 mm Hg, serum creatinine greater than 2.5 mg/dl and disturbance of consciousness were also found to be associated with increased mortality. However, this finding was based on limited data. On the other hand, there was no association between mortality and diabetes mellitus (OR 0.32, 95% CI 0.05-1.99) in patients with emphysematous pyelonephritis.

CONCLUSIONS

The accumulated and analyzed evidence suggests that conservative treatment, type I emphysematous pyelonephritis, bilateral emphysematous pyelonephritis and thrombocytopenia seem to be significant risk factors for mortality in patients with emphysematous pyelonephritis. These data may be taken into consideration when treating patients with this devastating infection.

Presentation and outcome of emphysematous renal tract disease in patients with diabetes mellitus

BACKGROUND

Emphysematous renal tract disease (ERTD) is a rare necrotizing infection of the renal parenchyma and urinary tract caused by gas-producing organisms. ERTD deserves special attention because of its life-threatening potential.

OBJECTIVES

To study the clinical features, radiological classification and prognostic factors of ERTD; and to compare the modalities of management and the outcome among the various radiological classes of ERTD.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Twenty consecutive patients with diabetes and ERTD, seen over last 3 years in a tertiary care institute of north India, were included in the study. All patients were subjected to computerized tomography (CT) after initial diagnosis by ultrasonography. They were classified into 5 classes as previously described. All patients included in the study were conservatively managed with appropriate antibiotics and/or percutaneous drainage or surgery if required.

RESULT

Mean age (+/- SD) of these subjects was 54.4 +/- 20.6 years; duration of diabetes mellitus 8.6 +/- 5.8 years, and duration of symptoms related with ERTD ranged from 3 days to 3 months. Two patients had isolated emphysematous cystitis, 13 patients had emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN), 3 had both EPN and cystitis, and 1 patient had EPN with cholecystitis, and 1 patient had EPN with pyomyositis. Only 7 (35%) patients had a history of pneumaturia. Escherichia coli was the commonest microorganism. The radiological distribution in 18 (2 had isolated cystitis) patients with EPN was: 2 patients had class 1; 1 had class 2; 2 had class 3A; 11 had class 3B, and 2 had class 4. Of 20 patients 11 (55%) survived. However, those patients who died had severe EPN based on radiological class (6 had class 3B and 1 had class 4). There was no significant difference between the survivor and non-survivor groups with respect to age, gender, duration of diabetes mellitus, duration of symptoms, serum creatinine level, total leukocyte count, hemoglobin, platelet count and culture positivity.

CONCLUSION

Computerized tomographic class 3B or 4 is the most reliable predictor of outcome in patients with ERTD.