[Retroperitoneal fibrosis]

Abstract

Retroperitoneal fibrosis is a rare clinical entity characterised by the presence of patologic collagen tissue in a retroperitoneal space. The fibrous mass covers abdominal organs causing their disfunctions. RPF was described at the begining of XX century but its etiology is not clear yet. Usually it causes an ureter obstuction and hydronephrosis, that is why most commonly is diagnosed by urologists and nephrologists. However, retroperitoneal fibrosis can be multifacial disease. In some patients localisation of fibrosis is atypical and manifestationns can be varied. Gastrological symptoms like jaundice, bowel obstuction, ascites can occure. Besides, some early signs of RPF are nonspecific and can imitate alarming symptoms of neoplasma, e.g.: weight loss, anemia, malaise, anorexia, fever. This force us to initiate gastrological investigation. The awareness of this disease is important. The early diagnosis and treatment improves prognosis and alows to avoid heavy complications. In typical cases radiology is often enough for diagnosis. However, histological examination is needed in many cases, especialy when patological mass is located atypical. A treatment is made up of farmacology and surgery. The first one is based on steroids, immunossuppressant and tamoxifen. Surgery is needed to eliminate organs obstruction.