Computed tomography of renal abscesses complicating medullary sponge kidney

Related Experiment Video

Updated: Sep 21, 2026

In Vivo, Percutaneous, Needle Based, Optical Coherence Tomography of Renal Masses
09:31

In Vivo, Percutaneous, Needle Based, Optical Coherence Tomography of Renal Masses

Published on: March 30, 2015

E Levine1

  • 1Department of Diagnostic Radiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City.

Journal of Computer Assisted Tomography
|May 1, 1989
PubMed

Insights

Renal abscess is a rare complication of medullary sponge kidney (MSK). Early CT diagnosis in patients with MSK and pyelonephritis unresponsive to antibiotics is crucial for effective treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Nephrology
  • Radiology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Medullary sponge kidney (MSK) is a congenital renal malformation.
  • Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common in MSK patients, affecting about one-third.
  • Renal abscess is an uncommon but serious complication of MSK.

Observation:

  • This report details two cases of MSK with renal abscesses.
  • Computed tomography (CT) was instrumental in diagnosing the renal abscesses.
  • Patients presented with symptoms suggestive of acute pyelonephritis.

Findings:

  • Renal abscesses in MSK patients may not respond to standard antibiotic treatment.
  • CT imaging can effectively identify renal abscesses.
  • Treatment strategies vary based on abscess size, including drainage or prolonged antibiotics.

Implications:

  • Clinicians should consider renal abscess in MSK patients with persistent pyelonephritis.
  • Prompt CT imaging is recommended for suspected renal abscesses.
  • Tailored treatment based on CT findings can improve patient outcomes in MSK-associated renal abscesses.

More Related Videos

Intrarenal Injection of Escherichia coli in a Rat Model of Pyelonephritis06:09

Intrarenal Injection of Escherichia coli in a Rat Model of Pyelonephritis

Published on: July 18, 2017

3D Imaging of Soft-Tissue Samples using an X-ray Specific Staining Method and Nanoscopic Computed Tomography07:01

3D Imaging of Soft-Tissue Samples using an X-ray Specific Staining Method and Nanoscopic Computed Tomography

Published on: October 24, 2019

Related Concept Videos

Acute Pyelonephritis II: Diagnostic Studies and Management01:28

Acute Pyelonephritis II: Diagnostic Studies and Management

Introduction:For diagnosing acute pyelonephritis, a comprehensive patient history is collected to identify symptoms such as dysuria, frequent or urgent urination, flank pain, or costovertebral angle (CVA) tenderness that may suggest a kidney infection.Physical ExaminationDuring the physical examination, CVA tenderness is assessed. This involves gentle percussion over the costovertebral angle, where tenderness often indicates a kidney infection.Diagnostic TestsUrinalysis: Used to identify white...
Imaging Studies II: Ultrasonography01:24

Imaging Studies II: Ultrasonography

IntroductionUltrasonography, or renal ultrasound, is a noninvasive medical imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to visualize the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and surrounding tissues.Indications for Urinary System UltrasonographyUrinary system ultrasonography is indicated in various clinical scenarios, such as:Kidney Stones (Urolithiasis): To detect and monitor the size and presence of kidney or urinary tract stones.Hydronephrosis: To assess the dilation of the renal pelvis and...
Imaging Studies III: Computed Tomography01:27

Imaging Studies III: Computed Tomography

DefinitionComputed Tomography (CT) of the genitourinary (GU) tract is a non-invasive imaging modality that utilizes X-rays and computer processing to generate detailed cross-sectional images of the urinary system, encompassing the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and adjacent structures such as the adrenal glands.PurposeCT scans of the GU tract serve several diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, including:Diagnosis of Urinary Tract Diseases: Detects kidney stones, tumors, cysts, and congenital...
Imaging Studies V: Intravenous Urography and Retrograde Pyelography01:22

Imaging Studies V: Intravenous Urography and Retrograde Pyelography

IntroductionIntravenous Urography (IVU) and Retrograde Pyelography (RP) are important diagnostic imaging techniques used to evaluate the urinary system. These methods help identify structural abnormalities, obstructions, and functional issues in the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. Both procedures use iodine-based contrast media to enhance the visibility of urinary tract structures on X-ray images, though they differ in their methods and indications.1. Intravenous Urography (IVU)Intravenous...
Imaging Studies VII: Vascular Imaging01:19

Imaging Studies VII: Vascular Imaging

DefinitionRenal angiography, also known as renal arteriography, is an imaging technique used to obtain a comprehensive view of blood flow and the vascular structure of blood vessels in the kidneys and surrounding areas.PurposeRenal angiography detects blood vessel abnormalities in the kidneys, such as aneurysms, stenosis, thrombosis, vascular tumors, and renal artery stenosis. It evaluates kidney function and guides interventional treatments like angioplasty or stent placement.Pre-Procedure...
Acute Kidney Injury IV: Diagnostic Studies and Prevention01:30

Acute Kidney Injury IV: Diagnostic Studies and Prevention

Accurate diagnosis and effective prevention are critical in managing Acute Kidney Injury (AKI), which is linked to high mortality rates ranging from 10% to 80%. Timely recognition of at-risk patients and careful monitoring can significantly reduce the likelihood of kidney damage.Diagnostic Assessments:The diagnostic process starts with a comprehensive medical history to identify prerenal, intrarenal, and postrenal causes.Prerenal causes, such as dehydration, hypotension, or blood loss, should...