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Dynamic magnetic resonance imaging in acute pyelonephritis
M C Martina1, P P Campanino, F Caraffo
1Istituto di Radiologia Diagnostica ed Interventistica, Universitá di Torino, ASOU San Giovanni Battista di Torino, Sede Molinette, Via Genova 3, 10126, Torino, Italy.
La Radiologia Medica
|November 11, 2009
Summary
Dynamic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) effectively diagnoses and monitors acute pyelonephritis (APN) in native and transplanted kidneys. This imaging tool aids in treatment planning and early detection of complications.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Nephrology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Acute pyelonephritis (APN) is a serious kidney infection requiring accurate diagnosis and monitoring.
- Dynamic MRI offers advanced visualization of renal structures and inflammatory processes.
- Assessing APN in kidney transplant recipients presents unique diagnostic challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy and clinical utility of dynamic MRI for APN.
- To assess the role of MRI in monitoring treatment response and detecting complications of APN.
- To investigate the effectiveness of MRI in both native and transplanted kidneys.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 442 renal MRI examinations in 285 patients with suspected APN.
- Analysis included diagnostic and follow-up scans, with a subset of kidney transplant recipients.
- MRI findings were correlated with clinical suspicion and patient outcomes.
Main Results:
- MRI identified signal abnormalities consistent with APN in 51.2% of native kidney cases.
- Inflammatory foci typically appeared as nonenhancing areas, with abscesses noted in 32.5% of positive cases.
- In transplanted kidneys, MRI was positive for APN in 42.8% of cases; follow-up showed resolution or evolution to fibrosis/scarring.
Conclusions:
- Dynamic renal MRI is a valuable tool for diagnosing and following APN in diverse patient populations.
- MRI facilitates improved treatment planning and early detection of complications, justifying its use despite costs.
- The technique demonstrates efficacy in both non-transplant and high-risk transplant patients.
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