Retroperitoneal fibrosis: A literature review

Retroperitoneal fibrosis (RPF) is an uncommon disease due an inflammatory condition and deposit of fibrotic tissue that involves the retroperitoneal area over the lower four lumbar vertebrae. Very few epidemiologic studies exist that accurately characterize the incidence and prevalence of the disease.

A review of the English language literature was performed using the MEDLINE combining the keywords: "retroperitoneal fibrosis", "Ormond´ disease", "IG4 related disease". Additionally, hand search of bibliographies of included studies and previous reviews was also performed to include additional information.

RPF develops insidiously, because the initial symptoms are non-specific. Pain is the most common presenting symptom. Various radiological diagnostic methods are used in the diagnosis of retroperitoneal fibrosis. Contrast-enhanced computerized tomography (CT) is a useful method for diagnosing retroperitoneal pathologies. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an important radiological method especially in the diagnosis of fibrotic tissue and in the examination of the retroperitoneal organ relation with fibrous tissue. Nuclear imaging is also a method used in renal function evaluation and patient follow-up. Various medical and surgical treatments would be used in the treatment of retroperitoneal fibrosis. In general, immunosuppressive agents such as corticosteroids, tamoxifen, azothiopurine, cyclophosphamide, cyclosporine, progesterone, mycophenolate mofetil are used in medical treatment. Surgical treatment methods are recommended in cases where medical treatment is not efficient.

Unfortunately, despite a recent surge in the number of publications on this topic, a few progress has been made in our understanding of the classification, pathophysiology, and, most importantly, the most appropriate treatment for this disease.