Emphysematous pyelonephritis: clues to rapid diagnosis in the Emergency Department

J Emerg Med. 2005 Apr;28(3):315-319. doi: 10.1016/j.jemermed.2004.07.015.

Abstract

Emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN) is an acute life-threatening bacterial infection. EPN leads to rapid necrotizing destruction of the renal parenchyma and peri-renal tissue, requiring early and aggressive care to reduce morbidity and mortality. Previous studies have described the use of computed tomography scan and radiology-performed ultrasound to make the diagnosis of EPN We report a case of EPN diagnosed by bedside Emergency Department (ED) ultrasound performed by emergency physicians, allowing a more rapid diagnosis and subsequent treatment.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Emergency Service, Hospital*
  • Fatal Outcome
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Kidney Papillary Necrosis / diagnostic imaging*
  • Kidney Papillary Necrosis / physiopathology
  • Kidney Papillary Necrosis / surgery
  • Middle Aged
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed
  • Ultrasonography