Gas-forming infections in genitourinary tract

Diabetes mellitus associated with urinary tract infections and ureteral obstruction can be predisposing factors leading to emphysematous pyelonephritis. Fever, flank pains, and a palpable renal mass, associated with dehydration and hyperglycemia, were the most frequent presenting symptoms associated with emphysematous pyelonephritis. Computerized tomography (CT) scan is the best method to identify a renal or perirenal abscess and its ramifications. Intravenous antibiotic therapy is determined by blood and urine cultures. Mortality was zero in patients treated by nephrectomy. One patient who had incision and drainage of a renal abscess died of sepsis, and 1 patient died of sepsis following incision and drainage of a prostatic abscess. Patients with cystitis emphysematosa require antibiotic therapy and relief of bladder outlet obstruction. Prostatic abscess is best treated by perineal incision and drainage. Periurethral scrotal abscesses should be incised, drained, and the overlying necrotic skin debrided. Early diagnosis and aggressive medical and surgical management of gas-forming infections of the genitourinary tract are vital.