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Computed tomography findings in xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis
Arumugam Rajesh1, George Jakanani, Nick Mayer
1Department of Clinical Radiology, University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, Leicester General Hospital, Gwendolen Road, Leicester LE5 4PW, United Kingdom.
Journal of Clinical Imaging Science
|February 9, 2012
Summary
Xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis (XGN) is a rare kidney inflammation. CT scans show unilateral renal enlargement and inflammation, often with extrarenal changes, aiding diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Nephrology
- Pathology
Background:
- Xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis (XGN) is a rare, chronic inflammatory kidney disease.
- It leads to progressive destruction of renal parenchyma.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review computed tomography (CT) findings in patients diagnosed with XGN.
- To identify key imaging features indicative of XGN.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of CT scans from patients with histologically confirmed XGN.
- Analysis of 11 patients' 13 CT examinations.
Main Results:
- All patients exhibited unilateral renal enlargement.
- Common findings included dilated calyces, abnormal parenchyma, and perinephric inflammation (91%).
- Obstruction from calculi (55%), focal fat deposits (27%), and renal abscesses (18%) were also noted.
Conclusions:
- Unilateral renal enlargement and inflammation are consistent CT findings for XGN.
- Perinephric inflammation, collections, or abscesses on CT should raise suspicion for XGN.
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