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Published on: July 18, 2017
Renal failure due to encrusted cystitis and pyelitis
Katsuhiro Ito1, Toshifumi Takahashi1, Toru Kanno1
1Department of Urology Ijinkai Takeda General Hospital Kyoto Japan.
Introduction:
Encrusted cystitis and pyelitis are a rare urinary tract infection characterized by mold-like calcification of collecting system. Here, we show a case of encrusted cystitis proceeding to pyelitis during a 1-month delay in diagnosis.
Case Presentation:
A 73-year-old man developed hematuria and pain during micturition while he was being treated for granulomatosis with polyangiitis and lung abscess. Cystoscopy revealed calcification of the bladder wall, and an initial diagnosis of a bladder stone was made. While awaiting surgery, the bladder wall calcification extended to the renal pelvis on both sides, with renal failure. He underwent bilateral nephrostomy replacement and bladder irrigation with Solita T1 and was administered intravenous vancomycin. Calcification almost regressed after 4 weeks of treatment.
Conclusion:
Encrusted cystitis and pyelitis should be suspected if the patient shows alkaline urine and urothelial mucosa calcification. Appropriate treatment includes antibiotics, urine drainage, and chemolysis by bladder irrigation.
Insights
Encrusted cystitis and pyelitis, a rare infection causing urinary tract calcification, can progress to kidney damage if diagnosis is delayed. Prompt treatment with antibiotics and bladder irrigation can lead to regression.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Infectious Diseases
- Nephrology
Background:
- Encrusted cystitis and pyelitis are uncommon urinary tract infections characterized by calcification within the urinary collecting system.
- This case highlights the potential for rapid progression of encrusted cystitis to pyelitis and renal failure.
Observation:
- A 73-year-old male with granulomatosis with polyangiitis presented with hematuria and dysuria.
- Initial cystoscopy revealed bladder wall calcification, misdiagnosed as a bladder stone.
- Over a month, calcification spread to the renal pelvis, causing bilateral renal failure.
Findings:
- The patient received bilateral nephrostomy, bladder irrigation with Solita T1, and intravenous vancomycin.
- Significant regression of calcification was observed after 4 weeks of treatment.
- Alkaline urine and urothelial calcification are key indicators for suspecting encrusted cystitis and pyelitis.
Implications:
- Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial to prevent severe renal complications.
- Treatment strategies should encompass antibiotics, urine drainage, and chemolysis via bladder irrigation.
- This case underscores the importance of considering rare infections in patients with atypical urinary symptoms.
Related Concept Videos
Acute Pyelonephritis I: Introduction
Acute Pyelonephritis II: Diagnostic Studies and Management
Acute Kidney Injury II: Pathophysiology
Urinary Tract Infection II: Pathophysiology
Acute Kidney Injury IV: Diagnostic Studies and Prevention
Acute Kidney Injury I: Introduction

