Emphysematous pyelonephritis: a case report and review of literatures

Abstract

Emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN) is a rare fulminating, gas-forming infection of the renal parenchyma. Diagnosis of EPN is difficult if it is based only on the history, physical examination and laboratory results. But the radiological evidence is valuable for diagnosis. CT scan is the most valuable method for diagnosis. This is a case report of EPN diagnosed by plain film of the abdomen and confirmed by non-contrast CT. The patient underwent nephrectomy and EPN was confirmed by pathological finding. Diagnostic investigation of this condition was reviewed.