Clinical Outcomes of Acute Pyelonephritis in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Background Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a prevalent predisposing factor for urinary tract infections (UTIs). Among hospitalized patients with acute pyelonephritis, UTIs are more common, severe, and associated with worse outcomes, particularly in those with type 2 DM. Pyelonephritis in DM patients is more frequently bilateral and linked to greater complications, with 90% of emphysematous pyelonephritis (EMPN) and cystitis cases occurring in diabetic individuals. Objective This study aims to evaluate the clinical and microbiological profiles, treatment outcomes, and complications of acute pyelonephritis in patients with type 2 DM. Methods A six-month prospective observational study was conducted from March 2016 to August 2016 at Stanley Medical College and Hospital, Chennai, India. A total of 102 hospitalized patients presenting with symptoms suggestive of acute pyelonephritis were included. Data were collected using a clinical questionnaire and analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 20.0 (Released 2011; IBM Corp., Armonk, New York, United States). Patients received culture-sensitive antimicrobial therapy, percutaneous drainage, and renal replacement therapy as required. Results Out of 102 patients, 80 (78.4%) had non-emphysematous pyelonephritis (NEMPN), and 22 (21.6%) had EMPN. The mean age was 55.2±10.9 years, with a female predominance of 63 (78.4%) participants. Escherichia coli was the most common organism isolated in 70 (68.6%) cases. Renal dysfunction was present in 67 (65.7%) patients, with a higher prevalence in EMPN (22, 100%) compared to NEMPN (45, 56.3%) (p<0.001). Mortality was observed in three (3.9%) patients, and 25 (24.5%) developed de novo or progressive chronic kidney disease. Conclusion Early diagnosis and aggressive management of EMPN in type 2 DM patients improve outcomes. Acute pyelonephritis is predominantly observed in women, with fever and loin pain as the most common symptoms. Escherichia coli is the primary pathogen, and renal dysfunction is frequent but often reversible. Mortality is low with appropriate management.