Forgotten DJ stent presenting with emphysematous pyelonephritis: A life threatening complication

Emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN) is an uncommon suppurative infection of renal parenchyma and perirenal tissue characterized by production of gas within renal parenchyma, collecting system or perinephric tissue.

We report a case of young non diabetic female with past history of extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) who presented with intermittent lower abdominal pain, dysuria and left lower limb swelling. Abdomen examination was notable for tenderness at left iliac fossa and fullness at left renal angle. Blood investigation showed leukocytosis and deranged creatinine levels. Urine analysis showed pyuria. Transabdominal ultrasound revealed left nephrolithiasis with moderate hydronephrosis, vesical calculus and double J (DJ) stent in situ. Patient was diagnosed as acute pyelonephritis and started on intravenous antibiotics. Despite on medical management, the condition deteriorated and progressed to septic shock. Computed tomography of kidneys, ureters and bladder (CT KUB) showed air fluid level in calyceal system with perinephric collection and confirmed diagnosis as emphysematous pyelonephritis. Patient underwent surgical drainage to control the sepsis. Few days later after control of sepsis and optimization, left nephrectomy and removal of retained DJ stent was done.

This case report highlights the need to consider emphysematous pyelonephritis as a possible diagnosis in patients harbouring DJ stents even in young non diabetics. Early aggressive medical management coupled with urological intervention is a valuable alternative to upfront emergent nephrectomy. However, surgery should not be delayed in patient with fulminant infection at presentation or who failed on conservative management.

Emphysematous pyelonephritis warrants high index of suspicion for timely diagnosis and can be fatal if not recognized early and promptly treated.