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Published on: July 8, 2025
[Management of fungal pyelonephritis with percutaneous pyelostomy in infants]
Jing Shen1, Shan Xu, Li-ping Shi
1Department of Urology, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China.
Objective:
To explore the management of fungal pyelonephritis in infants.
Method:
Data from 5 cases with fungal pyelonephritis, including the clinical situation, laboratory examination, feature of imaging, and treatment were analyzed.
Result:
All the 5 cases were preterm and low birth weight infants. In 3 cases the disease was unilateral, in 2 cases were bilateral, and acute renal failure occurred. Fungus balls presented on imaging. Urine culture was positive of Candida albicans. Treatment with percutaneous nephrostomy, irrigation and antifungal agent were associated with good prognosis. Only 1 case died. The surviving patients were followed up for 10 - 20 months and the results showed normal growth and development. B-mode ultrasound examination did not show any malformation of the urinary system.
Conclusion:
Fungal pyelonephritis was commom in preterm infants. Candida albicans was the major pathogenic microorganism. Percutaneous nephrostomy and drainage were effective in patients with urinary obstruction in relief of obstruction, early diagnosis and control of infection.
Insights
Fungal pyelonephritis is common in preterm infants, with Candida albicans as the primary cause. Percutaneous nephrostomy and antifungal treatment offer effective management for this serious infant kidney infection.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Nephrology
- Mycology
- Neonatology
Background:
- Fungal pyelonephritis is a rare but serious kidney infection.
- Preterm and low birth weight infants are particularly vulnerable.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the clinical characteristics and management strategies for fungal pyelonephritis in infants.
- To evaluate treatment outcomes and long-term prognosis.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 5 infant cases with fungal pyelonephritis.
- Inclusion of clinical data, laboratory findings, imaging features, and treatment regimens.
- Follow-up assessment of growth, development, and renal function.
Main Results:
- All 5 cases involved preterm, low birth weight infants.
- Unilateral or bilateral involvement with acute renal failure observed.
- Imaging revealed fungus balls; urine cultures confirmed Candida albicans.
- Percutaneous nephrostomy, irrigation, and antifungal agents led to good prognosis in most cases.
- Survivors showed normal growth and development without urinary system malformations.
Conclusions:
- Fungal pyelonephritis frequently affects preterm infants, with Candida albicans being the predominant pathogen.
- Percutaneous nephrostomy and drainage are crucial for relieving urinary obstruction and controlling infection.
- Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are vital for favorable outcomes in affected infants.
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Acute Pyelonephritis I: Introduction
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Imaging Studies V: Intravenous Urography and Retrograde Pyelography
Urinary Tract Infection IV: Nursing Management

