Xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis presenting as a pseudotumour.

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Pathology
• Urology

Background:

• Xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis (XGPN) is an uncommon chronic kidney inflammation.
• It is often misdiagnosed due to clinical and radiological similarities to other renal conditions, particularly renal cancer.
• Focal forms of XGPN present diagnostic challenges preoperatively.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the clinicopathological profile of pseudotumoral Xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis.
• To evaluate the management strategies and outcomes for XGPN.
• To reduce misdiagnosis and unnecessary nephrectomies for XGPN.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 12 cases of pseudotumoral XGPN.
• Review of clinical data, radiological findings, and pathological reports.
• Analysis of treatment approaches including surgery and conservative management.

Main Results:

• The average patient age was 51.52 years, with a gender ratio of 0.71.
• Obstructive renal calculi were present in 75% of patients.
• Nephrectomy was performed in 66.7% of cases, while 25% underwent partial nephrectomy; no recurrence was observed.

Conclusions:

• Pseudotumoral XGPN is a rare, benign kidney disease requiring conservative management.
• Limited awareness of XGPN contributes to a high rate of unwarranted nephrectomies.
• Clinical and pathological data should be carefully considered to optimize XGPN treatment.