Spontaneous perirenal haemorrhage in polyarteritis nodosa

Abstract

Patients presenting with flank pain are likely to have urological pathology but when features of hypotension are present high index of suspicion is needed to reach the cause such as perirenal haemorrhage. Spontaneous perirenal haemorrhage (SPH) is an uncommon presentation of vasculitis, autoimmune disease or malignancy. It is common in males in the age group between 30 and 60 years. Polyarteritis nodosa (PAN) is one of the commonest vascular diseases associated with SPH. Angiography adds valuable information to the diagnosis and management and can prevent unnecessary nephrectomy. We report a case of SPH that was successfully managed with angioembolization.