La pyélonéphrite emphysémateuse

[Bilateral emphysematous pyelonephritis caused by Candida glabrata: An exceptional entity]

Acute emphysematous pyelonephritis (AEP) is a severe form of urinary tract infection. It occurs usually in diabetics. The most concerned agents are the Gram-negative bacilli. We report a first case of bilateral AEP due to Candida glabrata, occurred in a 64-year-old diabetic woman. The clinical presentation started with fever and abdominal pains, without signs of urinary tract infection. Within six hours, the patient had developed a septic shock with renal failure and ketoacidosis. The diagnosis was confirmed by CT scan and the pathogen was isolated in urine. Despite antibiotic and antifungal treatment, she died from a septic shock. Acute emphysematous pyelonephritis due to Candida species is rare. However, the addition of antifungal therapy seems justified if a severe emphysematous pyelonephritis is associated with risk factors of Candida infection.

[Emphysematous pyelonephritis of single kidney: review of literature about one case]

INTRODUCTION

Emphysematous pyelonephritis is a rare and severe form of acute pyelonephritis. It is defined as the presence of gas-producing bacteria in the kidney and in peri-nepheretic areas. We report a case of emphysematous pyelonephritis on a single kidney associated with urolithiasis.

OBSERVATION

A 44-year-old woman, with a history of diabetes and chronic renal failure, presented with left renal colic, anuria, fever and worsening of general state. The diagnosis of emphysematous pyelonephritis was confirmed by CT scan. The treatment was based on antibiotheray, adapted to the renal function, insulinotherapy and urine drainage by a double J stent. The evolution was favourable.

DISCUSSION

Emphysematous pyelonephritis is an uncommon infection, generally affecting female diabetic patients. CT scan is mandatory to confirm diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

Even if it is rare, emphysematous pyelonephritis is associated with a high mortality in the absence of a rapid and effective treatment.