Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 24, 2026

Image Rendering Techniques in Postmortem Computed Tomography: Evaluation of Biological Health and Profile in Stranded Cetaceans
Published on: September 27, 2020
Perinephric Fat Stranding on Postmortem Computed Tomography Scan in Acute Pyelonephritis: A Case Report
Jack Garland1, Kelly Olds2, Rexson Tse3
1From the Forensic & Analytical Science Service, NSW Health Pathology, New South Wales.
Postmortem CT scans can reveal perinephric fat stranding, a key indicator of acute pyelonephritis. This finding aids pathologists in identifying kidney inflammation during postmortem examinations.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Radiology
- Pathology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Solid organ infection/inflammation can be challenging to detect via postmortem computed tomography (PMCT).
- Perinephric fat stranding is a known CT finding for pyelonephritis in clinical settings.
- Documentation of perinephric fat stranding on PMCT for acute pyelonephritis is absent in forensic literature.
Observation:
- A case of death due to acute pyelonephritis with hypertensive heart disease was investigated.
- Unenhanced PMCT revealed significant bilateral perinephric fat stranding prior to autopsy.
- This imaging finding directed the pathologist's focus towards the kidneys.
Findings:
- The PMCT demonstrated clear perinephric fat stranding.
- Microbiology specimens were collected based on the PMCT findings.
- The diagnosis of acute pyelonephritis was confirmed.
Implications:
- Perinephric fat stranding on PMCT may serve as a valuable indicator for acute pyelonephritis.
- This sign can alert pathologists to prioritize kidney examination and sampling.
- Enhances diagnostic accuracy in postmortem evaluations of renal infections.
Related Concept Videos
Acute Pyelonephritis I: Introduction
Computed Tomography
The technique was invented in the 1970s and is based on the principle that as X-rays pass through the body, they are absorbed or reflected at different levels. In the technique, a patient lies on a motorized platform while a computerized axial tomography (CAT) scanner rotates...
Acute Pyelonephritis II: Diagnostic Studies and Management
Imaging Studies III: Computed Tomography
Leaky Scanning
Lagging Strand Synthesis
There are several major differences between synthesis of the leading strand and synthesis of the lagging strand. 1) Leading strand synthesis happens in the direction of replication fork opening, whereas lagging strand synthesis happens in the...

